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THE NEW MAP OF 
EUROPE 

Giving Approximate Boundaries 



TOPICAL OUTLINE 



OF THE 



GEOGRAPHY OF EUROPE 

Developed According to the Problem Method 

and Including the Changes 

Brought About by the 

War 



BY 

H. W. FAIRBANKS 

Author of 

The Geography of California 



1919 
Harr Wagner Publishing Co. 

San Francisco, California 



,F2 



Copyright 1919 
Harr Wagner Publishing Company 



OCT i3!SI9 



A559648 






b 



INTRODUCTION 

The Outlines of the Geography of Europe presented in 
the following pages forms a part of the tinal volume of a 
new series of grammar school geographies upon which the 
author has been at work for a number of years. 

The pressing demand for an up-to-date treatment of the 
continent of Europe from a new point of view and one more 
rational than that found in any of our present school books 
3S an excuse for offering the outlines before all the changes 
in national boundaries have been full}" determined. 

The new series of geographies departs in a radical manner 
from the books and courses of study now in use. The gram- 
mar school course is made a progressive one, each countr}^ 
being studied in a formal way but once. It abandons the 
customary presentation of facts as not constituting good 
geography and substitutes for this the study of relations. 

The present outline develops the conception of "relation" 
and presents Europe from the "problem" point of view. This 
gives vitality to the subject matter and in addition arouses 
intense interest on the part of the pupils. 

H. W. FAIRBANKS, 

Berkeley, July. 1919. 



CONTENTS 

Page 

Introduction ^ 3 

Europe, the Land of Our Ancestors 4-5-6 

The Natural Regions of Europe 7 

The Highlands of Southern Europe 8 

The Mediterranean Border 8-9 

The Region of the Alps 10-11-12-13-14-15 

The Highlands of the Northern Part of the Iberian 

Peninsula 16-17 

The Carpathians, etc 17-18 

The Mountainous Lands of the Balkan Peninsula 19-20 

The Caucasus Mountains 21-22 

The Highlands of Northeast Europe 22-23 

Iceland 24 

The Great Central Plain 24-25-26-27-28-29 

The Countries of Europe 30 

British Isles, Map Studies 32 

Problems 33-34-35-36 

Special Problems to Be Worked Out by the Pupil 36-37 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 38 

Spain and Portugal, Map Studies 38-39 

Problems 39-40-41-42-43 

Special Problems 44 

Topics for Oral Discussion and Written Reports 44-45 

Italy, Map Studies, Problems, etc 47-48-49-50-51 

Special Problems 51-52 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 52 

Greece, Albania, Serbia and Bulgaria 52-53 

The Balkan Region — The Gateway to Europe 53 to 59 

Constantinople and the Internationalized Straits 60 

Special Problems 60 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 61 

Norway and Sweden, Map Studies 62 

Problems 63-64 

Special Problems 65-66 

France, Map Studies 67 

Problems 68-69-70-71 

Special Problems ^ 71-/2 



Page 

Belgium. Holland and Denmark. Map Studies IZ 

Problems— Three Little Countries 72,-7 A-7S-7(> 

Special Problems 76 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 77 

Switzerland, Map Studies 78 

Problem 78-79-80 

Special Problems 80-81 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 81 

Germany and Austria, Map Studies 82 

Topic 83-84-85 

Special Problems 86-87 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 87 

Poland, Map Studies . . : 88 

Topic 88-89 

Special Problems 90 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 91 

Finland, Esthonia, Lettonia and Lithuania, Map Studies 92 

Topic 92-93-94 

Special Problems 94 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 94 

Czecho-Slovakia, Map Studies 95 

Topic — Bohemia, Moravia and Slovak! 95-96 

Special Problems 97 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 97 

Hungary, Map Studies 98 

Topic — Hungary 98 

Special Problems 99-100 

Topic for Oral Discussion or Written Report 100 

Rumania, Map Studies 101 

Topic — The New Rumania 101-102 

Special Problems 10^ 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 103 

Ukraine and Ruthenia, Map Studies 104 

Topic— Ukraine Little Russians ^^'^'^^ 

Special Problems lOo 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports 106 

Russia, Map Studies ^ JSo 

Topic— The New Russia 1 ?n 

Special Problems JJO 

Topics for Oral Discussion or Written Reports Ill 



THE GEOGRAPHY OF EUROPE 

TOPIC 
EUROPE THE LAND OF OUR ANCESTORS:— A REGION 
SO FAVORED BY NATURE AND OFFERING SUCH A 
VARIETY OF CONDITIONS THAT IT EARLY BE- 
CAME THE HOME OF MANY PEOPLES SPEAKING 
DIFFERENT LANGUAGES AND, NOTWITHSTAND- 
ING THAT IT IS ONE OF THE SMALLEST AND 
THAT IN PARTS ITS PEOPLE STILL REMAIN IN 
A BACKWARD CONDITION, IT IS TODAY THE 
MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL THE CONTINENTS. 

PROBLEM 

Why is it that Europe, one of the smallest of the continents, 
has become the most important of them all? 

a. Europe lies almost in the center of tlie land hemisphere. 

b. The greater part of Europe has a temperate climate. 

c. The greater part of Europe has an abundance of rain. 

d. Europe has a diversified surface. 

e. Europe has an area of lowland large in proportion to area 
of mountain. 

f. Europe has a very broken coast line. 

g. Europe has many natural resources. 

Are we right in speaking of Europe as a continent? 

1. Europe is geographically a peninsula of Asia. 

2. Europe historically is very different from Asia. 

What does the map tell as to the relation of Europe to the 
other continents? 

1. To the east of Europe lies Asia the largest of the con- 
tinents. 

2. To the south across the Mediterranean sea lies Africa. 

3. On the- opposite side of the Atlantic ocean lie North and 
South America. 

5 



4. Australia is the only continent far removed from Europe. 
What does the position of Europe and the character of the sur- 
face suggest as to the temperature conditions? 

1. The most of Europe lies in the north temperate zone. 

2. Europe is almost surrounded and deeply penetrated by 
arms of the ocean. 

3. The larger part of the surface is lowland. 

4. The westerly winds blow off the Gulf Stream drift and 
temper the climate. 

5. The mountain systems bordering the Mediterranean mod- 
ify the climate of the adjoining lowlands. 

From the nature and position of Europe what can we say of 
the rainfall? 

1. Europe lies in the path of the storms that come with the 
westerly winds. 

2. There are no high mountain ranges in the west to pre- 
vent the moist winds from penetrating the heart of Europe. 
How far is the importance of Europe and the advanced condi- 
tion of its inhabitants due to the surface? 

1. The mountain ranges and lowlands extend easterly and 
westerly. 

2. The drainage is in general northerly and southerly from 
a central divide. (Compare with North and South America.) 

3. No other continent has so large a proportion of lowland 
in the temperate zone. 

4. The chief highlands lie in the southern part. 

5. The extensive lowlands and abundant rainfall have re- 
sulted in many'navigable rivers. 

6. The highlands are not continuous but consist of many 
partly connected mountain ranges with gaps or passes leading 
from one valley to another. 

7. The partial isolation of different regions by mountains 
and seas has aided in the development of the many different 
peoples. 

8. The presence of different peoples has led to competition 
and this has resulted in progress. 

How does the condition of the people show us that a diversi- 
fied surface favors progress? 

6 



1. The earliest as well as the most advanced modern civili- 
zation grew up in southern and western Europe where the sur- 
face is most diversified. 

2. The people of the great Eastern Lowland have made the 
least progress. 

What advantage to Europe has been the exceedingly irregular 
Coast? 

1. The deep indentations of the ocean greatly modify the 
climate. 

2. Bays and land-locked seas facilitate trade and commerce. 
How has the distribution of the climatic belts affected the 

growth of civilization in Europe? 

1. The earliest civilization grew up in the mild and rather 
dry Mediterranean belt. 

2. The highest modern civilization is found in the mid- 
European belt. . 

3. The cold and wet northern belt has been unfavorable. ' 
How have the natural resources affected the progress of the 

people? 

1. The destruction of the forests in the southern part has 
resulted in great harm. 

2. The forests of central Europe delayed the development 
of agriculture. 

3. Good fishing grounds have encouraged a familiarity with 
the sea and this has favored trade. 

4. Conveniently situated mineral deposits form the founda- 
tion for the great manufacturing industries of parts of western 
Europe. 

Judging from the nature of the climate and surface what would 
we expect to be the leading occupations? 

1. Extensive lowlands with an abundance of- rain and a tem- 
perate climate suggest farming. 

2. Navigable rivers and broken coast lines suggest trade and 
commerce. 

3. Shallow coastal waters suggest the importance of fishing. 

4. The presence of minerals and water power suggest min- 
ing and manufacturing. 



What conclusion can we now reach as to the distribution of 
the people of Europe? 

1. The coasts and lowlands of Western Europe contain the 
densest population. 

2. The great lowland plains of Eastern Europe have a less 
dense population. 

3. The mountains and arctic regions contain the fewest 
people. 

THE NATURAL REGIONS OF EUROPE. 
What can we learn from a relief map of Europe? 

a. That a great plain extends through the centre from west to 

east. 

1. The plain widens toward the east and has slight barriers 
separating it from Asia. 

2. The plain opens out to bodies of water in three different 
directions. 

3. The plain is well supplied with rivers. 

b. That Southern Europe is largely a mountainous highland. 

1. The mountain ranges as a rule extend easterly and west- 
erly. 

2. The mountain ranges are not continuous but irregular 
and broken. 

3. The central mountain group is the largest and as a whole 
the highest. 

4. The eastern portion has the highest peaks. 

5. There are many large valleys and plateaus interspersed 
among, the mountains. 

6. The mountains determine the importance of the rivers, 

7. The mountains form a serious barrier to trade and travel. 

c. That Northwestern Europe is occupied by a secondary high- 

land. 

1. The larger portion of this highland forms the Scandina- 
vian Peninsula. 

2. This highland has the nature of a plateau with no high 
peaks. 

3. The extension of the highland across the North Sea 
forms the mountainous lands of the northwestern part of the 
British Isles. 

8 



A. THE HIGHLANDS OF SOUTHERN EUROPE. 

INTRODUCTION 

Southern iLurope is a rugged broken region presenting a 
great contrast to the rest of the continent. The higher moun- 
tain slopes possess an arctic climate while some of the more 
sheltered A-alleys are almost tropical. 

Although the region is very mountainous we would be 
wrong to think of it as being wholly so. Many valleys border 
the Mediterranean Sea, some of them being of great extent 
while within the mountains are even larger plains and plateau. 

1. THE MEDITERRANEAN BORDER— THE SUMMER 
LAND OF EUROPE:~THAT MILD PLEASANT LAND 
OF SUMMER SUNSHINE, WINTER RAINS AND PIC- 
TURESQUE SLOPES. THE HOME OF THE OR- 
ANGE, LEMON AND FIG:— A LAND OFFERING SO 
FAVORABLE AN ENVIRONMENT THAT ITS IN- 
HABITANTS REACHED A HIGH DEGREE OF CIVIL- 
IZATION FAR IN ADVANCE OF THE REST OF 
EUROPE. 

What do we mean when we speak of the Mediterranean 
region? 

1. A fringe of. land about the Mediterranean Sea with warm 
dry summers and mild wet winters. 

2. A land the climate of which is suited to semi-tropic fruits. 
What do we mean when we speak of a region as having a 

"Mediterranean climate"? 

1. We mean a climate similar to that of the borders of the 
Mediterranean. 

2. Such a climate is found in California, in Chili, Cape 
Town, South Australia. 

Why does the Mediterranean border land vary so greatly in 
width in different places? 

1. Since mountain ranges break the influence of the sea the 
width, of the Mediterranean belt depends upon their position. 

2. In the Balkan peninsula the mountains rise close to the 
sea and the Mediterranean belt is narrow. 



3. The mountains of the Italian peninsula occupy the cen- 
tral part so that nearly the whole area lies in the Mediter- 
ranean belt. 

4. In the Iberian Peninsula the Mediterranean belt is nar- 
row where mountains border the sea and wide where valleys 
open from the sea into the interior. 

How can we account for the dry summers and wet winters of 
the Mediterranean region? 

1. In summer the belt of dry northwest trade winds over- 
lies the Alediterranean. 

2. In winter the westerly wind belt moves southerly until 
the whole of the Mediterranean region receives rain. 

What is there about the Mediterranean region which made it 
favorable to the early development of civilization? 

1. Owing to the broken coast line all parts are easily 
reached from the sea. 

2. Because of the sea it was to be expected that the ad- 
vanced ideas of Egypt, Syria and Greece should spread rapidly 
along its shores. 

3. The mountains on the north gave partial protection from 
the cold and from the savage races of the interior. 

4. The Sahara Desert on the south protected against the 
wild people of Central Africa. 

How is it that Summer drought has not hindered the develop- 
ment of Mediterranean peoples as we might expect it 
would? 

1. The earliest civilized peoples grew up in the deserts of 
Egypt and Mesopotamia where no crops were possible without 
irrigation. 

2. Later the Phoenicians and Greeks spread westward along 
the shores of the Mediterranean carrying a knowledge of irri- 
gation. 

3. If there were summer rains the climate would be less 
healthful and dense vegetation would have interfered with agri- 
culture. 

4. The dry summers favored progress because they necessi- 
tated thought and exertion to provide for a water supply dur- 
ing the growing season. 

10 



Is the Mediterranean Sea Accessible from other bodies of 
water? 

1. The Strait of Gibraltar leads to the Atlantic Ocean. 
2 The Bosphorus and Dardanelles Straits give a connection 
with the Black Sea and the navigable rivers of Eastern Europe. 
3. The Suez Canal now makes of the Mediterranean the 
chief highway between Europe and Asia. 

How seriously do the mountains affect communication between 
the Mediterranean and Central and Northwestern Eu- 
rope? 

1. There are two gaps, separated by the Auverne plateau, 
between the Alps and the Pyrennes Mountains. 

2. There are a number of passes across the Alps. 

3. East of the head of the Adriatic Sea between the Julian 
and Dinaric Alps there is a low pass. 

' What three southern projections of Europe make communica- 
tion with Africa easy? 

1. The Strait of Gibraltar only nine miles wide separates 
the Iberian Peninsula from Africa. 

2. The Sicillian Strait separates the Italian Peninsula and 
the Island of Sicily from the northern point of Africa. 

3. The Grecian Peninsula together with the Island of Crete 
forms the third easiest stepping stone to Africa. 

In what way are the people of the Mediterranean reminded 
that this is a weak part of the earth's crust? 

1. Two of the most noted volcanoes are found in the Medi- 
terranean region. 

2. Frequent earthquakes cause great damage and loss of life. 
What do the islands and broken coast line tell us as to the 

origin of the Mediterranean region? 

1. The Aegean Sea occupies a sunken region, the islands 
being mountain tops. 

2. The Adriatic is a sunken region, the islands being a por- 
tion of the Dinaric Mountains. 

3. The islands of the western Mediterranean are the higher 
parts of a sunken island. 

Why is it that the Italian is the most productive of the three 
peninsulas of Southern Europe and supports the largest 
population? 

11 



1. The Italian Peninsula has the largest area of fertile, well- 
watered soil. 

2. The shape and position of the peninsula is the most 
favorable. 

3. The Grecian Peninsula has a mountainous surface and 
poor, rocky soil. 

4. The most of the Iberian Peninsula is a dry plateau. 
Why is it that the ancient peoples of the three Mediterranean 

peninsulas suffered less from attacks by water than 
they did by attacks from the land? 

1. All the peoples living about the Mediterranean Sea were 
more or less civilized. 

2. The Sahara Desert gave protection on the south. 

3. The mountain passes on the north gave easy admittance 
to the barbarians of Central Europe. 

Since there is little mining on the shores of the Mediterran- 
ean, what should we conclude must be the chief oc- 
cupations? 

1. Occupations connected with the sea, such as trade and 
fishing. 

2. The growing of semi-tropic fruits. 

3. General farming and stock raising. 

How does it happen that manufacturing has not become an 
important industry, as in Central and Western Europe? 

1. The Mediterranean region is deficient in fuel and iron. 

2. Until recently the needs of the people have been largely 
met by hand industries. 

What conditions influenced the location and growth of the 
ancient cities of the Mediterranean region? 

1. Athens occupies a favorable position near the port of 
Piraeus. 

2. Rome was built upon the navigable Tiber in a position 
well suited for defense. 

3. Constantinople occupies a position wonderfully adapted 
for trade. 

4. Venice was built upon islands in a lagoon, being well 
placed for defense. 

5. Marseilles is upon a good harbor at the outlet of the 
Rhone Valley trade route. 

12 



6. Lisbon has an excellent position on the estuary of the 
Tagus River. 

7. Barcelona was once a distributing point for products of 
the Orient. 

8'. Genoa is one of the best sea ports of the Italian Penin- 
sula. 

Why do many of the Mediterranean cities lack the commercial 
importance they once possessed? 

1. The harbors of some have been silted up. 

2. Ancient trade routes have been replaced by new ones. 

3. Some cities are situated in regions at present backward 
in development. 

4. New cities better situated to meet the need of modern 
trade have replaced some of the old ones. 

What advantages has Constantinople as a possible capitol of 
the League of Nations? 

1. The city lies almost in the center of the greatest land 
mass. 

2. The city lies on the most important east and west route 
between Europe and Asia. 

3. The city lies on the greatest north and south water route 
of Europe and Asia. 

4. The city has an agreeable, healthful climate. 

5. The city is interesting for the different races of people 
seen upon its streets. 

6. The city is interesting historically. 

Why does the Mediterranean region possess such great attrac- 
tions for travelers and students? 

1. The most ancient cities of Europe with their interesting 
ruins are scattered along the shores of the Mediterranean. 

2. The cities contain museums filled with treasures of sculp- 
ture, painting and other fine arts. 

3. Many of the people still exhibit the manners and customs 
of many hundreds of years ago. 

4. The winter climate is mild and agreeable. 

Is it possible that the Mediterranean may some time regain tlie 
relative importance which it once possessed? 
1. The commercial advantages of the Mediterranean region 
are unequalled. 

13 



2. The climate is more agreeable than that of any other part 
of Europe. 

3. The development of the water power of the mountain 
streams will, to a great extent, make up for the lack of fuel. 

4. The methods of farming and fruit growing can be im- 
proved so as to be much more profitable. 

5. The building of reservoirs to hold the surplus water of 
the rainy season for use in summer will make the land much 
more productive. 

2. THE REGION OF THE ALPS — THE GREATEST 
PLAYGROUND OF THE WORLD:— THE HIGHEST 
AND MOST PICTURESQUE OF THE MOUNTAINS 
OF EUROPE AND THE IMPORTANT BARRIER BE- 
TWEEN THE ITALIAN PENINSULA AND THE CEN- 
TRAL LOWLANDS. 

What does the meaning of the word ALP tell us about the 

mountain region we are now going to study? 
What is the position and extent of the Alps proper? 

1. The Alps are situated in about the middle of the high- 
lands of Southern Europe. 

2. The Alps form the most extensive single mountain group. 

3. The Alps form a semi-circle about the northern end of 
the Italian Peninsula. 

What lesser highlands might we include with the Alpine group? 

1. The Auverne Plateau, lying to the westward. 

2. The mountainous plateau of South Germany, lying to the 
north. 

Judging from the position and height of the Alps, what ought 

their climate to be? 
What remarkable series of climatic belts similar to those o£ the 

Sierra Nevada Mountains of California are found upon 

the southern slope? 
(Olive, vine, deciduous trees; oak, beech, ash; coniferous 
trees, Alpine pastures, glacial.) 
Are we right in calling the Alps the Peak of Europe? 

1. The Danube River flows eastward. 

2. The Rhine flows northward. 

14 



3. The Rhone flows southward. 

4. The Po flows southeastward. 

How is it that the Alps have never formed as serious a barrier 
as their height and extent would lead us to expect? 

1. The Alps do not have a continuous high crest line. 

2. Many passes lead across the Alps. 

a. The Brenner Pass — "The Gate of Italy" — opens across 
the eastern Alps (4470 feet high). 

b. Many passes 6000 to 8000 feet high are found in the 
eastern Alps: Mount Cenis, Little St. Bernard (Hannibal's 
route), Great St. Bernard (the Pilgrim road to Rome), Simp- 
Ion Pass (the first carriage road), Roman road over the Alps 
close to the Mediterranean Sea. 

Why do the Alps form a less serious barrier today than for- 
merly? 

1. Napoleon opened three roads (Corniche road, next to the 
Mediterranean; Mount Cenis Pass road; the Simplon Pass 
road). 

2. Four railroads have now tunneled through the Alps. 
What can we say of the influence of the Alps upon the people 

of Europe? 

1. The lofty east and west mountain barrier affects the cli- 
mate of the lowlands upon both sides. 

2. The Alps supply never-failing streams valuable as high- 
ways, for their water power and for irrigation. 

3. The Alps afford a summer and winter playground for 
the densely crowded people of Western Europe. 

How does the scenery of the Alps compare with that of the 
Sierra Nevada Mountains in California? 

1. The Alps, having a heavier snowfall, possess far more 
extensive glaciers. 

2. The canyons of the Sierra Nevada Mountains are deeper 
and more picturesque. 

How do the resources of the Alps compare with those of the 
Sierra Nevada Mountains? 

1. The Alps contain few minerals, while the Sierras are rich 
in minerals. 

2. The Sierra Nevada Mountains have far greater forest 
resources. 

15 



3. Being without heavy summer rains, the Sierras are far' 
pleasanter for summer outings. 

How can we account for the many large and beautiful lakes in 
the borders of the Alps? 
(Compare with lakes of North America as to origin.) 
What occupations should we look for in a mountain region 
containing few minerals? 

1. Grazing should be important and large quantities of but- 
ter and cheese should be made if there is a market for these 
products. 

2. Lumbering should be carried on, since more land can 
profitably be devoted to forest growth than in the valleys. 

3. The abundance of water power should be used in manu- 
facturing, especially in the case of the Alps, which are sur- 
rounded by thickly settled lowlands. 

How has the fact that multitudes of people visit the Alps 
affected the industries of the inhabitants? 

1. The keeping of hotels has become an important business. 

2. The building of roads and railroads and the business 
of "guide" occupy the time of many people. 

3. The good market afforded by the thousands of visitors 
has greatly enlarged the already existing hand industries, such 
as wood carving, lace making, and the making of jewelry. 
From the position and nature of their home, what ought to be 

the character of the Alpine peoples? 

1. Because of the greater difficulty of making a living than 
in the lowlands, the Alpine peoples should be thrifty, hardy 
and brave. 

2. Because the Alps are surrounded by different countries, 
the Alpine peoples should belong to different races and speak 
different languages. 



16 



3. THE HIGHLANDS OF THE NORTHERN PART OF 
THE IBERIAN PENINSULA:— A REGION OF PLAT- 
EAUS AND MOUNTAIN RANGES, THE HIGHEST 
PORTION BEING THE PYRENNES, WHICH, AL- 
THOUGH LESS LOFTY THAN THE ALPS, FORM 
A VERY SERIOUS BARRIER TO LAND COMMUNI- 
CATION BETWEEN THE PENINSULA AND THE 
REST OF EUROPE. 

What natural region already studied lies upon the east, south 
and southwest of the Central Iberian Plateau? 

Why is it that the plateau has a less fertile soil and a climate 
drier and cooler in winter than that of the coastal bor- 
der of the peninsula? 

1. The plateau is so shut in by mountains that it has a con- 
tinental climate. 

2. The mountains cut off the sea winds so that the rainfall 
is light. 

What is the position of the Pyrennes and Cantabrian Moun- 
tains with regard to the plateau? 

Why is it more difficult to pass the Pyrennes than it is the 
Alps? 

1. The range has a continuous, lofty crest. 

2. The approaches to the crest are steep upon both sides. 

3. The only roads from France into Spain have been built 
at each end of the mountain range close to the Bay of Biscay 
on the west and the Mediterranean on the east. 

4. Roncevalles Pass, near the eastern end (4000 feet high), 
is noted in history. 

Since the Cantabrian Mountains are but a westward continua- 
tion of the Pyrennes, do they not also form a barrier 
to the Iberian Peninsula? 

1. The Pyrennes alone occupy the neck of the peninsula. 

2. The Cantabrian Mountains form a barrier between the 
Bay of Biscay and the interior plateau. 

3. The Cantabrian Mountains are not as high as the Py- 
rennes and railroads have been built through several passes. 
In how far can we compare the Iberian Peninsula to an island? 
Although separated from the rest of Europe by the Pyrennes 

17 



Mountains, is the Iberian Peninsula really protected 
from invasion? 

What other mountain range at the opposite end of Europe is 
similar to the Pyrennes? 

Are the Pyrennes-Cantabrian Mountains on the whole an ad- 
vantage or disadvantage to the region they occupy and 
the Iberian Peninsula? 

1. Disadvantage: 

a. The mountains form a barrier to trade and movements 
of people. 

b. The mountains cut off the rains which are much needed 
upon the interior plateau. 

2. Advantages: 

a. The mountains have formed a protective barrier for the 
people of the peninsula. 

b. Very rich iron ores are mined in the Cantabrian Moun- 
tains. 

c. The mountains support forests valuable for fuel and 
lumber. 

d. Mineral springs and pleasant summer climate attract 
visitors. 

4. THE CARPATHIANS, THE TRANSYLVANIAN ALPS 
AND THE PLAIN OF HUNGARY:— THE EASTWARD 
CONTINUATION OF THE NORTHEAST ARM OF 
THE ALPS, SWEEPING IN A VAST SEMI-CIRCLE A 
THOUSAND MILES IN LENGTH, INCLOSES AND 
PROTECTS THE GREAT PLAIN OF HUNGARY. 

How do the Carpathians compare with the real Alps in extent 

and height? 
What do we mean by the Plains of Hungary? 
Of what advantage to the Plains of Hungary are the inclosing 

mountains? 

1. The mountains break the sweep of the winds. 

2. The mountains form a protective barrier upon three sides. 
At what points is the Plain of Hungary easy of access in spite 

of the mountains? 

18 



1. By the gate through which the Danube River enters the 
plain. 

2. By the gate through which the Danube leaves the plain. 

3. Through passes in the inclosing mountains. 

How do the resources of the Carpathians and Transylvanian 
Alps compare with those of the real Alps? 

1. Raising of cattle and sheep is as important, but dairying 
is less so. Why? 

2. There are different forest belts, including coniferous and 
broad-leaved trees. 

3. Mining is far more important than in the Alps. 

How can we account for the vast treeless Hungarian Plain? 
What are the facilities for shipping the products of the plain 

away to market? 
Why is it that this plain is looked upon as one of the "richest 

lands of Europe"? 

1. The plain lies between the cold lands of the north and 
hot lands of the south. 

2. The plain lies between the wet regions of the west and 
the dry steppes of the east. 

3. The climate is well adapted to wheat, corn and temper- 
ate fruits. 

4. Lands not suited to cultivation support great numbers 
of cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. 

What causes have determined the location of the cities? 

1. Vienna lies at a north-south and east-west cross roads 
where the Danube breaks through the mountains. 

2. Budapest lies upon the Danube at base of a mountain 
spur with fuel and building material handy. 

3. Belgrade lies upon the Danube at the junction of the 
Salonica-Constantinople road. 



Iv 



5. THE MOUNTAINOUS LANDS OF THE BALKAN 
PENINSULA:— A REGION OF STEEP, BROKEN AND 
OFTEN BARREN MOUNTAINS WHICH COMMENCE 
IN THE KARNAC ALPS AND EXTEND EASTERLY 
TO THE BLACK SEA AND SOUTHEASTERLY TO 
THE AEGEAN SEA:— A BACKWARD LAND INHAB- 
ITED BY MANY DIFFERENT PEOPLES. 

What is the position and extent of the Balkan region? 

1. The Balkan land is shaped like a triangle with its base 
toward the east and its point at the west where it joins the 
Alps. 

2. The Balkan land includes all that part of Europe lying 
south of the Save and Danube Rivers. 

In what respects is the Balkan Peninsula the most interesting 
of the three peninsulas of Southern Europe? 

1. The peninsula has a broken and mountainous surface. 

2. One of the world's greatest highways crosses the penin- 
sula. 

3. The peninsula contains six distinct races of people. 
What part of the peninsula belongs to the Mediterranean bor- 
der land? 

1. The strip of lowland along the Adriatic, Aegean and 
Marmora Seas. 

2. The southern part of the Peninsula of Greece. 

Why should we distinguish between the Balkan Mountains and 
the mountains of the Balkan Peninsula? 

Of what other mountains still farther east did the Balkan 
Mountains once form a part? 

1. The sinking of the Aegean region separated the moun- 
tains of Greece from the Taurus Mountains of Asia Minor. 

2. The sinking of the Black Sea region broke the connec- 
tion between the Balkan Mountains and the Caucasus Moun- 
tains. 

Why is the Balkan region so difficult a one to study? 
How can we account for the barrenness of so many of the 
Balkan ranges? 
1. Most of the mountains of the Mediterranean border lie 
in the region of summer drought. 

20 



2. The mountains are formed in large part of limestone 
(Karst region). 
Why are the Danube and Save River slopes more productive 

than the Mediterranean slope? 
What has led to the presence of so many races of people in 

the Balkan region? 

1. The Balkan region lies across the east and west route 
between Southwestern Asia and Western Europe. 

2. Highways from the Mediterranean to the plains of Cen- 
tral Europe extend across the Balkans. 

3. The surface is greatly broken by mountains which tend 
to keep the people of different parts from mingling. 

Why is this region as a whole so backward, inasmuch as it 
was the home of the first civilized men of Europe? 

1. Grecian civilization was destroyed by inroads of barba- 
rians from Asia and Central Europe. 

2. Owing partly to mountain barriers, the ancient civiliza- 
tion of the Mediterranean did not affect the people of the in- 
terior very much. 

3. The Danube Valley, lying across two great highways, 
has been frequently overrun by peoples of less culture than 
the existing inhabitants. 

4. The different races of the Balkans have been almost con- 
stantly warring with each other. 

How can the commercial advantages of the interior be im- 
proved? 

1. Through building railroads across the mountains to the 
Mediterranean. 

2. By making the Danube River and the Orient Railway 
international. 

What should we expect would be the chief industries under 
present conditions? 

1. General farming and fruit growing in the valleys. 

2. Grazing upon the more barren and colder mountain 
slopes. 

In what ways will the world war affect this region for the 
better? 
1. Lead to introduction of better and more profitable meth- 
ods of farming and stock raising. 

21 



2. Will encourage the development of mining. 

3, The power supplied by the many mountain streams will 
be used in manufacturing. 

Why under present conditions are the cities few and small and 
most of the people scattered in villages? 

Why may we now look for the rapid social and industrial im- 
provement of the people of the Balkans? 

6. THE CAUCASUS MOUNTAINS:— THE EAST AND 
WEST MOUNTAIN WALL FORMING A PART OF 
THE BOUNDARY BETWEEN ASIA AND EUROPE--— 
A WALL LOFTIER THAN THE ALPS, AND LIKE 
THE PYRENNES SO DIFFICULT TO CROSS THAT 
THERE WAS UNTIL RECENT YEARS LITTLE IN- 
TERCOURSE BETWEEN THE PEOPLES LIVING 
UPON OPPOSITE SIDES. 

What does the map tell us as to the position and relations of 
the Caucasus Mountains? 

1. The Caucasus forms the northern range of the east and 
west mountain system extending through Europe and Asia. 

2. The range is higher than any in Europe, but not as high 
as those of Central Asia. 

3. The Caucasus Mountain wall connects the Black and 
Caspian Seas. 

How does this barrier connect with other barriers between 

Europe and Asia? 
How is it that the Dariel Pass, though 8000 feet high, has 

now a good highway through it? 
How is it that this mountain wall formed in ancient days a 

far less important barrier than if it had extended 

north and south? 

1. The great migrations of people have been in an east and 
west direction. 

2. Sea-faring people could go around the Caucasus by using 
the Black Sea, Sea of Azof and the Caspian Sea. 

What value do the Caucasus Mountains possess for the people 
living at their base? 

22 



1. They contain extensive forests in a part of the world 
where forests are scarce. 

2. They collect heavy rains and snows which form streams 
of value for irrigation. 

3. The mountains make the climate of the valleys at their 
southern base more mild and agreeable than they would other- 
wise be. 

THE HIGHLANDS OF NORTHWEST EUROPE 

1. THE HIGHLANDS OF SCANDINAVIA AND SCOT- 
LAND—THE STARTING POINT OF THE GREAT 
GLACIER THAT ONCE COVERED HALF OF EU- 
ROPE AND NOTED THE WORLD OVER FOR THE 
SCENERY OF ITS WONDERFUL FJORDS:— A RE- 
GION NOT WELL ADAPTED TO FARMING BE- 
CAUSE OF ITS COLD, WET CLIMATE AND ROCKY 
SOIL, BUT POSSESSING GREAT WEALTH IN ITS 
FORESTS, FISHERIES AND MOUNTAIN STREAMS 
AND INHABITED BY A HARDY SEA -FARING 
PEOPLE. 

What is the position and character of this highland? 

What body of water divides it into two parts? 

Why is the climate so much milder and wetter than that of 

the eastern part of North America in same latitude? 
What reason have we for supposing it was the starting point 

o£ the great, glacier? 

1. There is no other highland in Northern Europe. 

2. The rocks of the highland are rounded and polished. 

3. Hilly moraines, lakes and marshes cover the region to 
the east and south. 

What shall we conclude from our previous studies as to the 
origin of the remarkably broken coast line? 

Why do we find that the larger part of the people of these 
highlands have their homes near the coast? 

1. The climate and rocky surface of the interior are not 
well suited to farming. 

2. Most of the valuable farm lands lie along the coasts, 

23 



3. The broken coast is favorable to fishing. 

4. Familiarity with the water has encouraged the business 
of the sea trader. 

Are there no inhabitants at all in the interior of the high- 
lands? 

1. The interior contains valuable forests. 

2. The open, rocky slopes are valuable for grazing. 
What influence have their inhospitable surroundings exerted 

upon the people? 

1. They are hard working and industrious. 

2. They have become bold, hardy and independent. 

How is it that the waters surrounding these highlands have 

become the seat of the most important fishing industry 

in the world? 
In how far do the industries of interior of southern part of 

Scandinavian Peninsula compare with those of the 

Alps? 

1. The damp climate favors dairying at the expense of gen- 
eral farming. 

2. Forests are the source of important industries. 

Why is the existence of many swift streams of great ad- 
vantage? 
1. The highlands possess no coal except in the south of 

Scotland. 

2. The water power makes possible the growth of important 

industries. 

Judging from the nature of the region, what are the chief 
food products that we should expect would have to 
be imported? 

With what exports can the necessities be purchased? 

In what part ought the most of the population and largest 
cities to be found? 

How can we explain the presence of a city in the position of 
Hammerfest? 



24 



2. ICELAND:— THAT VOLCANIC ISLAND IN THE 
MIDST OF THE NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN WHICH 
SERVED AS A STEPPING STONE TO THE DIS- 
COVERY OF NORTH AMERICA BY THE NORSE- 
MEN—AN ISLAND WHICH IN SPITE OF ITS IN- 
CLEMENT CLIMATE IS SO LOVED BY ITS IN- 
HABITANTS THAT THEY CAN WITH DIFFICULTY 
BE INDUCED TO LEAVE. 

How is it that Iceland, though so far from the mainland of 
Europe, was discovered and settled more than 1000 
years ago? 

What disturbances more than once nearly drove the inhabi- 
tants away? 

How is it that people are willing to make their homes in this 
far northern land? 

1. The waters about the island are full of fish. 

2. The island is resorted to by great numbers of sea birds. 

3. Extensive grassy lowlands support hardy ponies, sheep 
and cattle. 

C. THE GREAT CENTRAL PLAIN OR LOWLAND 

THE CENTRAL EUROPEAN LOWLAND APPEARS TO 
POSSESS EVERY ADVANTAGE OVER THE MEDI- 
TERRANEAN BORDERLAND IN CLIMATE, SOIL, 
FUEL AND MINERAL RESOURCES, AND IS IN AD- 
DITION EASILY ACCESSIBLE BY WATER, YET ITS 
INHABITANTS WERE MUCH SLOWER IN ACQUIR- 
ING CIVILIZATION:— THE EASTERN PART OF THE 
SAME LOWLAND HAS LAGGED FAR BEHIND THE 
WESTERN IN CULTURE AND INDUSTRIES, AL- 
THOUGH IT HAS MUCH GREATER AGRICULTURAL 
RESOURCES AND ON THE WHOLE A FAVORABLE 
CLIMATE.— HOW FAR CAN GEOGRAPHY HELP US 
TO UNDERSTAND THESE THINGS? 



25 



What is the position and extent of the great central lowlands? 
Is the whole of this region a lowland plain? 

1. The larger eastern part is practically a plain of almost 
limitless extent. 

2. The western part is hilly upon its borders and several 
groups of low mountains rise above it. 

What has happened in quite recent times to make more un- 
equal the two divisions of the plain? 

1. The region of the North and Baltic Seas has subsided 
beneath the ocean. 

2. The plain of Eastern Russia has risen from beneath the 
Arctic Ocean which extended south to the present Caspian Sea. 
What sort of drainage does the plain show? 

1. The western part slopes toward the center from high- 
lands upon the north and south. 

2. The eastern part slopes toward the north and south 
from a low central water parting. 

What sort of rivers should we expect to find upon the lowland? 

1. Many large rivers, because the most of Europe receives 
a good rainfall. 

2. The rivers should flow slowly and should form a very 
important system of highways. 

Are the mouths of the rivers as favorably situated as they 
might be? 

1. The larger rivers empty into remote seas. 

2, The smaller ones empty into the North and Baltic Seas. 
In what way do the low water partings make the position of 

the mouths of the streams of less importance than 
they otherwise would be? 
Has the geographical story of the plain affected the develop- 
ment of the people? 

1. The cutting off of the Arctic Ocean from the Caspian 
Sea was a disadvantage. 

2. The sinking of the plain of Western Europe forrned the 
North and Baltic Seas and the British Isles. 

How did the great glacier which once covered two-thirds of 
the plain affect the present life conditions? 
1. The innumerable lakes and marshes about the Baltic Sea 
are due to the glacier, 

26 



2. The glacier left large areas of clayey and sandy soil. 
Are the lowland coasts of the North and Baltic Seas, though 
possessing innumerable harbors, well adapted to nav- 
igation? 

1. Compare the coasts and harbors with those of the South 
Atlantic Coast of North America. 

2. Compare the bays with those of Scandinavian highlands 
and Scotland as to relative advantages. 

How have the disadvantages of the Baltic Sea for ocean nav- 
igation been overcome? 

In what respect does the position and surroundings of the 
European lowland give it greater climatic advantages 
than any similarly situated plain in the world? 

1. The plain is open to influence of mild ocean winds that 
sweep entirely across it from west to east. 

2. There are no mountain ranges to cut off the moisture 
brought by the winds. 

3. The larger part of the plain is not directly exposed to 
ocean winds. 

What portions of the plain possess unfavorable climatic con- 
ditions? 

1. The extreme northern part is very cold. 

2. The extreme southeastern part is very dry. 

How is it that millions of people live about the Baltic Sea, 
while the Hudson Bay region, in about the same lati- 
tude, is almost uninhabited? 

How have the climatic conditions affected the distribution of 
the forests? Compare with the forest belts of North 
America. 

1. The northern part is tundra. 

2. The north central part supports a belt of coniferous 
forests. 

3. South of the coniferous forest is a mixed belt of conifers 
and hardwoods which originally covered all of the western 
part of the plain. 

4. South of the hardwood forest of Eastern Europe is a 
prairie-like region (Black Earth region). 

5. Southeast of the prairies are the dry and desert Caspian 
steppes, 

27 



What advantages are presented by the central lowlands as a 
whole? 

1. The greater part possesses a temperate climate. 

2. The plain opens to seas upon every side but one. 

3. Nearly all the surface is capable of being cultivated. 

4. The plain is so flat that most of the rivers are naviga- 
ble nearly to their sources. 

5. The plain is so flat that it is easy to build canals con- 
necting the divides between the Black, Caspian and White Seas. 

6. It is easy to connect the Mediterranean with the North 
Sea and Atlantic Ocean by means of canals. 

7. The plain offers easy communication between all parts 
of heart of Europe. 

What unfavorable conditions for rapid advance in civilization 
were offered by the central lowlands? 

1. There was a lack of incentive to agriculture because of 
abundance of game and fish. 

2. The wide distribution of forests discouraged agriculture. 

3. The glaciated portion of the plain as a whole possesses 
poor soil. 

4. Absence of defensive boundaries led to constant warfare 
between the different peoples. 

5. Lack of north and south barriers left the whole plain 
open to Asia. 

6. Climate, while bracing, is disagreeable^ — a fact which had 
some influence in causing northern peoples to overrun the 
lands to the southward. 

How can we explain the fact that the western lowland con- 
tains more people and has developed a far greater 
commerce and industry than the eastern lowlands, al- 
though only one-fifth as extensive? 

1. Meaning of western lowland. 

2. Every part is reached by water from the Atlantic Ocean, 

3. There are more than fifty harbors (contain one-third of 
world's shipping). 

4. There are valuable resources in forests and water power. 
— 5. There are large quantities of coal and iron conveniently 
located. 

6. Rivalry between different nationalities favors progress. 

28 



Why are most of large cities located upon estuaries rather 
than upon bays? 

1. The, cities were founded when small boats were used. 

2. They have grown in importance because it is as easy to 
deepen the estuaries as it is to prepare harbors upon a shallow 
coast. 

3. They have better raih and water communication with the 
interior. 

On the whole, have the cities upon the estuaries greater or 
less advantages than cities on the fjords of Scandi- 
navian highlands? 

What has been the effect on agriculture of the demand for 
food on the part of the great industrial population of 
^ Western Europe? 

1. Intensive farming is practiced. 

2. Encouraged the production of fertilizers for the poor 
soils. 

3. Forests are carefully cultivated and confined to areas not 
suited to agriculture. 

4. Damp climate is favorable to growth of great quantities 
of potatoes, sugar beets and other vegetables. 

5. Wheat, oats, barley and rye partly supply the needs of 
the people. 

6. Conditions are favorable to raising of cattle, sheep, hogs 
in large numbers. 

Why is Western Europe more noted for manufacturing than 
agriculture, in spite of the attention given to the latter? 

1. There are unlimited resources of coal and iron and other 
minerals. 

2. Transportation advantages cannot be excelled. 

3. The position is central as regards markets. 

Why are the people of the eastern lowland as a whole much 
behind those of the west in comforts and arts of mod- 
ern life as well as industries? 

1. The region is farther from the centers of ancient civ- 
ilization. 

2. The region is unprotected from incursions by Asiatic 
nomads: 

a. The Ural Mountains. 

29 



b. The Caspian Steppes. 

3. Streams flow too slowly to furnish water power, 

4. Monotony of life tends to preserve early conditions. 

5. General backward condition of society has delayed mining. 

6. Uniformity of race and language do not favor rapid ad- 
vancement. 

Why is the fact that the eastern or Russian plain is open to 
Asia such a disadvantage? 

What disadvantages does the eastern lowland possess as re- 
gards outlet for farm products? 

1. The Black Sea has been controlled by Turkey. 

2. The White Sea is remote and is also frozen a portion 
of the year. 

3. The ports on the Baltic are -frozen a portion of the year. 
How is it that Moscow, the greatest commercial city, is situ- 
ated in the heart of the plain far from the sea? 

In what way will the results of the world war be a blessing 

to the grain growers of the plain? 
How will the results of the war react upon the relative amount 

of business of Petrograd and Odessa? 



3U 



THE COUNTRIES OF EUROPE 

PROBLEM 

WHAT IS THE REASON THAT EUROPE, ONE OF THE 
SMALLEST OF THE CONTINENTS, CONTAINS SO 
MANY COUNTRIES AND THAT NEARLY ALL OF 
THEM ARE SITUATED IN THE WESTERN HALF? 

What do we mean by "Country"? 

How did countries first come to be formed? 

1. People of adjoining districts unite for protection (Swiss). 

2. Groups bent on conquest unite for strength (early Prus- 
sians). 

Has the existence of boundaries or even of countries them- 
selves ever been permanent? 

1. The more powerful have continually annexed the lands 
of the w'eaker (Russia and Germany), 

2. Nationalities held against their will have revolted and 
established new countries (Balkan States once held by Turkey). 
What influence has the surface of Europe exerted upon the 

size of countries and the permanency of their boun- 
daries? 

1. Mountain barriers aid in making boundaries permanent 
(Spain). 

2. Water barriers offer great protection (British Isles). 

3. Where mountains divide a region into distinct parts, 
there are many small countries (Balkan region). 

4. Great plains favor growth of large countries (Russia). 
Can geography offer any explanation for existence of little 

countries on the plain of Western Europe? 

1. Holland and Denmark possess partially protected boun- 
daries. 

2. Belgium has the position of a "buffer state." 

What new ideals regarding countries have been spread abroad 
as a result of the world war? 
1. Each race or nationality has the right to live under an 
independent government if it so wishes. 

31 



2. There should be a League of Nations, one object of which 
should be to watch over and protect little nations. 
What effect has the new and better ideals had upon the map 
of Europe? 

1. One large country has disappeared. 

2. Several large countries have lost much territory. 

3. Many new countries, the most of them small, have come 
into existence. 

What can we expect as to the permanency of the new map 
of Europe? 



32 



THE BRITISH ISLES 
MAP STUDIES 

What two natural regions extend over the British Isles? 

What part belongs in the plain of Central Europe? In the 
Northwest Highlands? 

What parts are intermediate in character between the plain 
and the highlands? 

In what respect are surface features of Ireland different from 
those of Scotland? 

Which of the three countries — England, Ireland or Scotland — 
has the most broken coast and best harbors? 

Which side of Ireland has best harbors? 

What is the nature of the ocean bottom about the Islands? 

What would be the change in the shore line of Western Eu- 
rope if the land should rise 500 feet? Where would 
England first be joined to the Continent? 

What groups of islands lie to the north? 

What cities are best situated for trade with America? With 
Europe? 

PROBLEM 

WHAT IS THERE IN THE NATURE OF THE BRITISH 
ISLES AND THE PEOPLE THAT INHABIT THEM 
WHICH HAS MADE GREAT BRITAIN FOREMOST 
IN THE SPREAD OF CIVILIZATION AND ONE OF 
THE LEADING MANUFACTURING AND COMMER- 
CIAL NATIONS OF THE WORLD? 

What is the position of the British Isles? 

Judging from the position of the Islands and the direction of 

the prevailing winds, what sort of a climate should 

we expect them to have? 

1. The climate should be mild without great extremes of 
heat and cold. 

33 



2. The westerly winds should bring frequent rains through- 
out the year. 

How should we expect the rains to be distributed over the 
Islands? 

1. The western coasts and the mountains should be the 
wettest. 

2. Southeast England should have a moderately dry, pleas- 
ant climate. 

How can we account for the exceedingly broken coast line? 

1. The British Isles were once a part of the mainland of 
Europe. 

2. An uplift of 125 feet would again connect England with 
the Continent and 240 feet Ireland with England. 

3. The flooding of the river valleys by the sinking of the 
land formed bays and estuaries which extend so far into the 
land that no part is more than 75 miles from tide water. 
What leads us to believe that a large part of the British Isles 

was once forested? 
How did the conditions favor an unusual variety of industries 

on the part of the early inhabitants? 
(Fishing, hunting, grazing, agriculture, mining.) 
Were the conditions favorable to the early development of 

agriculture? 

1. The exceedingly wet climate of Ireland and Scotland was 
unfavorable. 

2. The forests of the lowlands of England were in the way 
of farming. 

3. Fish and game were abundant. 

What productions should we look for and how should these 
be distributed in a land the most of which is cool 
and wet? 

1. The lowlands of Southeast England are adapted to wheat, 
hops, peas, beans and vegetables, and the warmer parts to 
fruits. 

2. The cool, damp climate of Ireland and Scotland is best 
adapted to pasturage, barley, oats, root crops and other veg- 
etables. 

3. The poor soil of the bleak hills and mountains supports 

. 34 



grasses on which hardy cattle and sheep obtain subsistence. 

4. Because of the abundance of moisture and the cheapness 
with which grain can be imported, two-thirds of the whole 
usable area of the Islands was, before the war, devoted to 
pasturage and raising of cattle, sheep, horses and pigs. 
How can we account for the fact that 100 years ago all neces- 
sary foods were raised on the Islands, while at the 
outbreak of the world war fully three-fourths was 
imported? 

1. The population has doubled in the last 100 years. 

2. Farming has been neglected for other more profitable 
industries. 

3. Ships engaged in taking away manufactured articles 
brought back food supplies. 

How is it that grazing has not decreased as has farming, but 
on the contrary has increased? 

1. The great area of natural pasture land, together with the 
little care required by stock, favored the industry. 

2. The increase in the great estates and parks reserved for 
hunting. 

What was the possible danger to the people of the British 
Isles of having to import so much of their food? 

What effect has the world war had upon farming in the Brit- 
ish Isles? 

1. The country raised in 1918 four-fifths of ' its necessary 
foods. 

2. Many people returned from the cities to a life in the 
country. 

How is it that agriculture decreased in Ireland as well as in 
England, although the Island has few manufacturing 
industries? 

1. The population is less than it was at one time. 

2. Ireland is a natural grazing country. 

Is it possible that the British Isles could be entirely self-sup- 
porting agriculturally and still remain a great manu- 
facturing nation? 

How is it that mining and the weaving of wool were among 
the earliest industries? 

35 



1. The tin of Cornwall was known and in demand at the 
time of the Romans. 

2. The home flocks produced large quantities of wool. 
What are some of the causes which led Great Britain to be- 
come one of the leading manufacturing nations? 

1. The presence of coal and iron near each other, 

2. The discovery that coal instead of charcoal could be used 
in smelting iron. 

3. The invention of the steam engine, carding machine and 
spinning jenny. 

4. Easy access to the markets of the world. 

5. Favorable climate. 

How serious a disadvantage is it to have to import all textile 
materials except a little wool and flax? 

In what way are the advantages of the British Isles superior 
to those of the other countries of Europe for the de- 
velopment of foreign trade? 

1. There are large numbers of men trained to a life on 
the water. 

2. No place upon the islands is more than 75 miles from 
navigable waters. 

3. Great Britain has colonies in all parts of the world. 
What two chief causes lie at the foundation of both the manu- 
facturing and trade of Great Britain? 

1. Mining, because it takes people from the farms, making 
it necessary to import food as well as raw products. 

2. Fishing, because it is a school for sailors and also helps 
supply food. 

What conditions determined the location of the primitive weav- 
ing and iron works? 
Why does nearly all industrial England lie west of a line con- 
necting the Humber and Severn estuaries? 
Why is there so little manufacturing in Ireland and the high- 
lands of Scotland? 
What conditions have determined the location of the great 
modern industries? 
1. The cotton industry has developed near coal fields in 
the moist climate of the west slope of the Pennine Range, cen- 
tering at Manchester and Liverpool. 

Z6 



2. Iron manufacturing is all carried on near the iron and 
coal fields, centering at Birmingham, Glasgow being noted for 
shipbuilding and Sheffield for fine steel. 

3. Woolen industry centers at Leeds on east slope of the 
Pennine Range near coal fields. 

Why does commerce center in the estuaries of the Thames, 
Severn, Mersey and Clyde? 

1. London on the Thames River has become the greatest 
city in the world. 

a. London is easily reached from the harbors of Western 
Europe. 

b. Owing to the double tide, the Thames has deep water 
for 80 miles. 

c. London is the capitol of the British Empire. 

d. London is chiefly a collecting and distributing port. 

2. The Severn, Mersey and Clyde Estuaries open toward 
the New World and lead back to iron and coal cities with their 
great manufacturing plants. 

Why did London become an important city long before Liver- 
pool, Glasgow and Manchester on the west coast were 
heard of? 

What has made Cardiff the greatest coal shipping point in 
the world? 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS TO BE WORKED OUT BY 
THE PUPILS 

Great Britain being a manufacturing country, why should we 
expect its sea trade to be greater than that of any 
other nation? What country similarly situated will 
soon be a competitor? 

Why is it necessary for the life of Great Britain that it keep 
control o£ the sea? 

Would it be an advantage or disadvantage if England were 
connected with the Continent by land? Would a tun- 
nel avoid any possible disadvantages of a land con- 
nection? 

Why is it that the original Celtic inhabitants are mostly found 

in the more remote and mountainous parts? 

2>7 



Why is it that Ireland, though a large part of the surface can 
be cultivated, is in such a poor, backward condition? 

In what respects and why is the business of London of such 
a different nature from that of Birmingham or Liv- 
erpool? 

If London had not become a great city long before the de- 
velopment of the modern manufacturing cities, is it 
likely that it would today have been the largest city 
in the world? 

Why is it that Great Britain has established a greater num- 
ber and more influential colonies than any other 
nation? 

Was it a good thing that the English people allowed agricul- 
ture to decrease in importance, while at the same time 
the population was increasing? Discuss from point of 
view of food supply, city, factory and out-door life. 

Why are the leading cities of Ireland situated upon the East 
Coast, while the best harbors are upon the West Coast? 

Why has Glasgow, though having naturally very poor water 
communication, become a much more important in- 
dustrial city than Edinburg? 

In what way has the great growth of manufacturing resulted 
seriously for the British Isles? 

1. People are crowded in the great cities. 

2. Many country districts have been partly abandoned. 
Why are portions of the British Isles much sought by visitors? 
Why is it that the British people have been greater colonizers 

than any others of Europe? 
What advantage has the establishment of many colonies been 

to those who remained at home? 
How is it that the people of the British Isles, though their 

country is small and isolated, have led in freedom and 

progress and have exerted so great an influence upon 

the world? 

1. The people of the British Isles are made up of many 
different races. 

2. The insular position of the country has tended to de- 
velop freedom and independence. 

38 



3. The climate, though disagreeable, is bracing and healthful. 

4. The people are naturally energetic and inventive. 

TOPICS FOR ORAL OR WRITTEN REPORTS 

Why fishing is such an important industry. 

The English lake region. 

The scenery of Scotland. 

Home life in Ireland. 

The advantages of the Clyde Estuary. 

How peat is formed and why Ireland has so much of it. 

The city of Edinburgh. 

The disadvantages of life in a great city such as London. 

The colonies of Great Britain. 

The journey of a bale of cotton from India to Manchester and 

its arrival as cloth in British East Africa. 
The advantages of the situation of the city of Birmingham. 
Life upon the Faroe and Orkeney Islands. 
England during the Roman occupation. 
The different races that are united to form the people of Great 

Britain. 
How Great Britain came to change from a country of farmers 

and fishermen to a manufacturing and trading nation. 
Why Great Britain has exercised so much more influence upon 

the world than have the other countries of Europe. 

SPAIN AND PORTUGAL 

MAP STUDIES 

What position in Europe does the Iberian Peninsula occupy? 

By what waters is it almost surrounded? 

What sort of a barrier separated the peninsula from the rest 

of Europe? 
What kind of a coast line has the peninsula? Compare with 

British Isles. 
What close connection appears to exist between the mountains 

of the southern part and the mountains of Northern 

Africa? 

39 



What promontory in the southern part belongs to England? 

Compare the length of a tunnel under the Straits of Gibraltar 
and the probable difficulties in digging it with a tunnel 
under the Straits of Dover. 

What continuous high ranges extend full length of the north- 
ern side? 

What lofty range lies in the extreme south? 

In what direction does the position of the mountains make it 
easiest to travel across the peninsula? 

What appears to be the nature of the surface of the interior? 

To what extent do the rivers appear to be navigable? 

In what parts are the largest areas of lowland? 

Which of the two countries appears to have largest proportion 
of lowland? 

By what routes does it appear easiest to enter the peninsula 
from France? 

Judging from the latitude, what ought the climate to be? 

Which should have the moister climate, Portugal or the east 
coast of Spain? 

Does the boundary between Spain and Portugal appear to fol- 
low natural features or to be arbitrary? 

What are the relative advantages of the cities of Lisbon and 
Madrid as regards situation? 

PROBLEM 

SPAIN AND PORTUGAL, THE TWO COUNTRIES 
FORMING THE IBERIAN PENINSULA, HAVE TO- 
GETHER AN AREA NEARLY TWICE THAT OF 
GREAT BRITAIN, CONTAIN A GREATER VARIETY 
OF VALUABLE MINERALS AND ARE FULLY AS 
FAVORABLY SITUATED FOR TRADE:— WHAT IS 
THE REASON THAT THESE COUNTRIES, IN SPITE 
OF THEIR MANY ADVANTAGES, ARE NOT ONLY 
THINLY POPULATED, BUT EXHIBIT A POOR AND 
BACKWARD CONDITION? | 

i 

Are we right in saying that the Iberian Peninsula is almost as^- f 
much isolated as though it were an island? ? 

40 



In what respects is the situation of the peninsula favorable 
to trade? 

1. It lies nearest to North and South America of any part 
of the mainland of Europe. 

2. It faces both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic 
Ocean. 

3. It is separated from Africa by the narrow Strait of 
Gibraltar. 

What are the disadvantages of its shape and coast line as com- 
pared with the British Isles? 

1. The British Isles have a broken coast and no part is very 
far from tide water. 

2. The Iberian Peninsula is almost square and possesses an 
even coast. 

Why is the peninsula, although almost touching Africa, little 
used as a highway between the two continents? 

1. The mountain ranges extend east and west. 

2. The interior is a plateau difficult of access from the 
coasts. 

Since the peninsula is difficult to enter, how is it that it was 
overrun by invaders in ancient times, apparently as 
easily as were Italy and Greece? 

Judging from the latitude and the direction of the prevailing 
winds, what should we expect in regard to climate? 

1. The northern part is in the belt of westerly winds the 
entire year. 

2. The southern part is reached by the westerly winds only 
in winter. 

What conclusions can we draw from the physical map as to 
the climate of the interior? 

1. The interior being a plateau and shut off from moist 
winds, must be dry. 

2. The plateau must have a continental climate. 

What definite knowledge have we about the climate that is 
not obtained from books? 

1. Our markets contain semi-tropic fruits from Spain. 

2. Irrigation was introduced into Mexico and California by 
the Spanish padres. 

41 



To what parts of Spain and Portugal must, then, the Mediter- 
ranean climate be confined? 

What parts of the world already studied have a Mediterranean 
climate? 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the coastal bor- 
der for agriculture compared with the interior? 

What can we now say from a knowledge of the climatic belts 
as to the forests of the peninsula? 

1. The great interior tableland is treeless. 

2. The mountains support forests of oak, beach, chestnut, 
and in the higher Pyrennes, pine, spruce and fir. 

3. On the warmer southern slopes of the tableland are for- 
ests of cork oak. 

From our knowledge of the climate and surface, what can we 
say as to the distribution of the agricultural products? 

1. The northern maritime provinces have the same products 
as Central Europe, among them being rye, oats and apples. 

2. On the great treeless tableland, chief products are wheat 
and barley. 

3. On the southern slope of the tableland, vast orchards of 
olive trees are to be seen. 

4. On the southern lowlands there are orange and lemon 
orchards and extensive vineyards (wine being the chief fruit 
product). 

What part should we expect would be the hottest and possibly 
suited to the growing of dates? 

How can we account for the relative importance of stock 
raising? 

1. Great areas of mountain and tableland are too dry for 
farming, but support bushes and grasses. 

2. The raising of cattle, sheep, mules and burros requires 
little effort and care. 

Why is it that the population of the tableland is thin and the 
people poor? 

1. The region is one of the driest in Europe. 

2. The climate is difficult to endure. 

3. There is little fuel to be had. 

42 



Why is it that less use is made of the rivers than we would 
expect? 

1. Because of the swift current, only the Guadalaquiver can 
be used any considerable distance by boats. 

2. Except where they approach the sea, the rivers flow in 
deep, narrow valleys. 

On what is founded the reputation which the peninsula has 
long possessed of being the richest mineral country 
of Europe? 

1. There are mines of silver, lead, zinc, copper, iron and 
sulphur. 

2. The largest quicksilver mines in the world are in Spain 
and California. 

3. Fine quality of iron ore is mined upon the northern coast. 

4. Coal is known to exist in several places. 

How can we explain the fact that during the times of the 
Romans and the Moors, 1000 years later, the penin- 
sula was densely peopled and prosperous? 

1. The peninsula is naturally rich in resources. 

2. It was the granary and mineral storehouse of the Ro- 
mans. 

3. Moors and Arabs introduced irrigation and sub-tropic 
fruits. 

4. Trade flourished (the Moors controlled the Mediter- 
ranean). 

What is the reason that today the peninsula supports a poverty 
stricken people little more than one-third the number 
of its inhabitants 2000 years ago? 

1. The greater part of the scanty forests have been de- 
stroyed. 

2. Soil has become poor through lack of fertilizers and 
loss by washing. 

3. Ancient irrigation systems have gone to decay. 
What is the reason for the present backward condition? 

1. At the time of the Moorish wars great numbers of peo- 
ple perished or migrated to other lands (Moors to Africa). 

2. The colonization of America took away many of the 
leading men. 

43 



3. Religious wars drove away many (the Jews to Salonica). 

4. Lack of fuel. 

5. Difficulties of transportation. 

6. Lack of education. 

How can we account for the presence of so many different 

races? 
Why do the people of Portugal, though of the same stock 

originally as the Spanish, appear quite different? 
Why has not the broken surface resulted in many different 

nationalities as it has in the Balkan Peninsula? 
How is it that the people of the peninsula, though generally 

poor, are able to import foods, raw materials and 

many manufactured articles? 

1. Olives, olive oil, wine, oranges, lemons, etc., are exported 
in large quantities. 

2. Fine grade of iron, ore, quicksilver and sulphur are ex- 
ported. 

3. The southern part affords a great deal of cork oak bark. 
In what way is Lisbon more advantageously situated than 

Madrid? 

1. Lisbonn is in a more mild and fertile region, 

2. Lisbon is accessible by water. 

Why is there so little communication between Spain and Por- 
tugal? 
Of what use to Great Britain is Gibraltar? 
What made Barcelona noted in ancient times as well as today? 

1. In antiquity Barcelona was a distributing point for ori- 
ental products. 

2. Barcelona has a favorable climate and access to raw 
products. 

What is needed by the people of both Portugal and Spain as 
a foundation for modern prosperity? 

1. Re-foresting of the barren hills and mountains. 

2. Extension of irrigation. 

3. Development of electric energy from the streams. 

4. Better education. 



44 



SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

Why would Spain, though a part of continental Europe, suffer 
almost as much as Great Britain if cut off from com- 
munication by sea? 

What is the explanation of the fact that stock raising is im- 
portant in Spain because the climate is in most parts 
too dry for crops, while in the British Isles it thrives 
because the climate is very wet? 

Is the fact that the most of the people of Spain are very poor 
due to the lack of rain, or should we hunt for some 
other cause? Compare in this connection the civiliza- 
tion of most Spanish countries, whether wet or dry. 

If the poverty of Spain is due to lack of summer rains, how is 
it that California and the Valley of Chile, also with- 
out summer rains, are so fruitful and flourishing? 

Why is it that in a country so well adapted to the growing of 
sub-tropical fruits, for which there is a good market in 
the north of Europe, that the people are so poor? 

How is it that Spain has been more influenced by Africa than 
by Europe? 

Would a tunnel under the Straits of Gibraltar, connecting Spain 
with Africa, be of any particular advantage to the 
country? 

What is the real reason that Spain, though it once held so 
many colonies in the New World and obtained so 
much wealth from them, is now one of the poorest 
and least progressive countries of Europe? 

How is it that, although Spain and Portugal are so isolated 
from the rest of Europe, they contain a population 
made up of so many races? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL OR WRITTEN REPORTS 

The Rock of Gibraltar (Pillars of Hercules). 

The cork forests of Spain and Portugal. 

The Alhambra and its surroundings. 

What the Moors did for Spain. / 

A visit to the Azores and Madeira Islands. 

45 



How the natural resources of Spain have been wasted. 

The comfortless homes of the poorer people. 

Why raisins are made in Spain and not in France. 

The ancient Moorish city of Toledo. 

The amusements of the Spanish and Portuguese. 

The similarities between Spain and California. 

How to make Spain prosperous again. 

The Spanish and Portuguese compared. 



46 



ITALY 

MAP STUDIES 

What long peninsula and two large islands form the chief part 
of the kingdom of Italy? 

What little peninsula, Alpine area and coast cities were ac- 
quired as a result of the world war? Why were these 
given to Italy? 

In what natural region does the most of Italy lie? 

Compare the shape of the Italian Peninsula with the Iberian 
Peninsula. 

By what waters is the peninsula almost surrounded? 

Why do we say, "Italy is rooted in the Alps"? 

What body of water is almost inclosed by Italian lands form- 
ing a real Italian sea? 

Which of the large islands forms a stepping stone to Africa? 

How does the coast compare as to regularity with the Iberian 
and Grecian Peninsulas? 

Which coast is practically without bays? 

Where is the largest river and largest body of agricultural 
land? 

How does the surface of the interior compare with that of 
Spain? 

By what land routes does Italy appear most easily accessible? 

How does the position compare with the other Mediterranean 
peninsulas as regards advantages for trade? 

What two noted volcanoes are found in Italy? 

Which is more easily entered from the land side, the Italian 
or Iberian Peninsula? 

Which city has the best commercial position? 

I 
TOPIC 

ITALY:— A COUNTRY HAVING SUCH AN ADVANTAG- 
EOUS POSITION AND SO FERTILE A SOIL THAT 
IT BECAME AT AN EARLY DATE THE CHIEF 

47 



POWER AND CULTURE CENTER OF THE WORLD 
—A POSITION LATER LOST BECAUSE OF THE 
WEAKNESS OF ITS NORTHERN MOUNTAIN BAR- 
RIER—AND ALTHOUGH A LAND OF VOLCANOES 
AND EARTHQUAKES, YET, ON ACCOUNT OF ITS 
GENIAL CLIMATE AND WONDERFUL REMAINS 
OF ANCIENT ART, ATTRACTS THOUSANDS OF 
VISITORS YEARLY. 

In what way does the Iberian Peninsula closely resemble the 
Scandinavian? 

Why is it that Italy's mountain barrier offers less protection 
than the Pyrennes does Spain? 

How is it that the mountain barrier is more of a protection 
to the countries of the north than it is to Italy on the 
south? 

Of what advantage to Italy is the recent addition to her boun- 
daries on the side next to Austria? 

Why is the position of Italy superior to that of any other 
country of Europe? 

1. Italy lies in the center of the most important sea in the 
world. 

2. Italy can be reached equally well from the countries of 
Asia through the Suez Canal and America and Western Eu- 
rope through the Strait of Gibraltar. 

3. Italy is within easy reach of the fertile African shores. 

4. Passes in the mountains permit of communication with 
the rest of Europe by land. 

How did the shape, soil, surface and climate combine to favor 
the early development of the people of the Italian 
Peninsula? 

1. The peninsula is long and narrow with a great extent 
of sea coast. 

2. A mountain range through the center increases the water 
supply in a region of summer drought. 

3. The interior mountain range is not high enough to form 
a serious barrier to communication. 

4. The greatest valley has the most abundant water supply. 

5. The volcanic soil is favorable to agriculture. 

48 



6. The narrowness of the peninsula and the position of the 
mountains give the whole a sea climate. 

7. The mountains in the north, though not impassable, nev- 
ertheless did aid in keeping out the barbarians living beyond 
them. 

8. Dry summers necessitated greater exertions on the part 
of the people than if an abundance of rain fell. 

Why is there a greater variation in climate between the ex- 
treme north and south of Italy that we would expect 
from the difference in latitude? 

1. The Alps in the north, lying in the path of the westerly 
winds, are not only cold, but extremely wet. 

2. The south is not only dry in summer, but frequently ex- 
periences the hot sirocco wind from Africa. 

What interesting series of climatic belts do we find between 
the base and summit of the Alps? 

Why is it that the lack of what we would consider good har- 
bors did not delay the development of ancient Roman 
empire? 

1. The boats of ancient times were small. 

2. The streams have silted up many harbors in the last 
two thousand years. 

How is it that the streams have so seriously injured the bays? 

1. The forests that once covered the mountains have been 
destroyed. 

2. Torrential rains have washed the soil from the slopes 
and into the bays. 

Is the fact that Italy lost its ancient culture wholly due to 
incursions of barbarians? 

1. The soil has become impoverished. 

2. The people now suffer from lack of fuel. 

3. The eastern coast has no harbors adapted to modern 
boats. 

4. Vast malarial marshes on the lowlands seriously af¥ect 
the health of one-sixth of the population. 

Why has the chestnut alone of the ancient forest trees been 
preserved? 

49 



What has always made Sicily a far more important island than 
Sardinia? 

1. Sicily lies on the route of ancient and modern trade. 

2. Sicily lies almost midway between Rome and Carthage. 

3. Soil and climate favor the growth of the orange and 
lemon. 

4. Sardinia is a mountainous land with poor soil and less 
favorable climate. 

Why do the inhabitants have great fear of volcanoes and earth- 
quakes ?' 

1. Vesuvius and Etna have often overwhelmed cities, towns 
and vineyards. 

2. Earthquakes frecjuently cause great loss of life and 
property. 

Why is the fatality from earthquakes greater than it would be 

if the forests had not been destroyed? 
Taking into account all the geographic influences, what are the 

advantages of Italy compared with Spain? 
What fruits should we expect to find widely distributed in this 

sunny land? 
1. The vine and mulberry grow almost everywhere except 
upon the slopes of the Alps. 

2. The olive thrives from Florence southward. 

3. Orange and lemon are found chiefly in the southern half. 
How can we account for the fact that Italy, with few great 

manufacturing industries, has one of the densest pop- 
ulations of any European country? 

1. Nearly three-fourths of the land is under cultivation. • 

2. Half of the land not cultivated is devoted to grazing. 

3. The soil, though often neglected, is naturally rich. 

4. The climate, like that of California, favors a great va- 
riety of productions. 

What is the chief cause for backwardness in manufacturing? 
What is the reason that most of the manufacturing is confined 

to the northern part? 
In how far does the food of the Italians give us a clue to the 

productions of the country? 

50 



1. The larger part of the population is poor and cannot use 
imported foods to any extent. 

2. Wine is a universal drink, as it is in France and Spain. 

3. Macaroni, a national dish, is made from a variety of 
gluten rich wheat. 

4. Olives and olive oil are used everywhere. 

5. Cheese is a very important food, especially in the north. 
What conditions make Italy the greatest rice-growing country 

of Europe? 
Why on the whole are the people of Southern Italy far less 
advanced than those of the north? 

1. The northern Italians are more energetic. 

2. The northern part has greater natural resources. 

How is it that if the plains of the Po River and the Venetian 
Plain were in the hands of an enemy, Italy would find 
it difficult to support her population? 

1. These plains form by far the largest agricultural area 
on the peninsula. 

2. Much of this vast area is river-deposited silt. 

3. The many Alpine streams supply abundance of water 
for irrigation. 

4. The chief products are wheat, corn, rice, silk, wine and 
flax. 

Why is it that the products of the Po Valley are more like 
those of Central Europe than of the Mediterranean 
border? 

Why should we expect silk, wool and linen weaving to be 
among the chief industries of Milan and Turin? 

How came Venice to lose its ancient importance as a commer- 
cial city? 

What has made Genoa the chief maritime city of the North? 
(Harbor, timber, water power, damp climate, accessibility 

from the north.) 

To what is due the great lead which Naples has acquired 
among Italian cities? 
(Harbor, fertile plain, free commercial city.) 

In what way did the importance of Rome in ancient times dif- 
fer from the present? 

51. 



1. The city had an advantageous position. 

2. Boats could ascend the Tiber to the city, a distance of 
fourteen miles. 

3. The Tiber is no longer navigable and the present im- 
portance rests in its remains of ancient art, historic and 
religious associations as well as the fact that it is the capital. 
In the manufacture of what articles do the Italians, though 

lacking in machine industries, show their artistic skill 
and taste? 

1. Fine jewelry of every description. 

2. Fine pottery and Majolica ware. 

3. Painting and sculpture. 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

Why would Italy like to make the Adriatic an Italian sea? 
On what grounds does Italy lay claim to Dalmatia? 

If Italy held the northern or Dalmatian coast of the Adriatic, 
would it be any safer from attack, with Serbia (Jugo- 
slavia) holding the high mountains behind, than if the 
dominion of Serbia extended down to the sea? 

Why is it that we find upon the Island of Sicily the remains 
of so many different Mediterranean civilizations? 

The statement is sometimes made that the people of the south- 
ern peninsulas of Europe are poor because of the lack 
of summer rains. If this is true, why are not the peo- 
ple of California poor, because they also have long dry 
summers? 

What is the reason that so many Italian emigrants are found 
scattered over many of the countries of the new world? 

The Italian Peninsula is, with the exception of Denmark, the. 
only one controlled by a single state. Is there any- 
thing in the surface features which might help account 
for this? 

Explain why it is that the Italians so far excel the Germans 
in the fine art of handicraft, while the latter excel in 
machine-made goods. Why do we prefer the hand- 
made articles? 

Is it a wise thing on the part of the Italians, any more than 

52 



it is of the Spaniards and Greeks, to kill all the birds 
they can for fear of the damage they do the crops, and 
to cut down the forests so that there will be more 
plow and pasture land? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL OR WRITTEN REPORTS 
The chief foods of the Italians. 
The relative advantages of summer rains in Switzerland and 

irrigation in Italy. 
An eruption of Vesuvius. 

The ancient buried cities at the base of Vesuvius. 
The Messina earthquake of 1908 on the Island of Sicily. 
A visit to Rome. 
The city of Venice. 
The gateways across the Alps. 
The hand-made jewelry of the Italians. 
The Beautiful Island of Sicily. 

Italian country homes compared with those of Switzerland. 
The wonderful Italian lakes. 

GREECE, ALBANIA, SERBIA AND BULGARIA COUN- 
TRIES OF THE BALKAN PENINSULA? 

MAP STUDIES 

What is the position of the Balkan Peninsula? 

By what waters is it enclosed? 

What rivers form its northern boundary? 

How does the peninsula differ in shape from the other penin- 
sulas of Europe? 

How does the barrier on the landward side compare with those 
of the other peninsulas? 

What peninsulas does it most nearly resemble as regards the 
coast line? 

What are the straits at the closest land connection with Asia? 

What large island forms a stepping stone to Africa? 

What group of islands form stepping stones to Asia Minor? 

With what mountain range of Asia Minor do the mountains of 
Greece appear to have been once connected? 



What is the nature of the islands of the Aegean Sea? 

What is the relative proportion of mountain and lowland? 

What is the nature of the mountains? Are there many or few 
ranges? Are they regular or broken? 

Along what river is the largest area of lowland? 

What can we say of the extent of the lowland along the sea? 

Are there any large rivers besides the Danube? 

How accessible is the interior from the Adriatic? 

Trace the highway followed by the Bagdad Railway from Con- 
stantinople to Belgrade. 

Trace the highway from Salonica to Belgrade. 

How difficult does it appear to be to reach the head of the 
Kulpa River from Fiume on the Adriatic? 

Which of the Balkan countries is most mountainous and pos- 
sesses the most regular coast line? 

Which country has the most advantageous sea coast? 

Which country has an outlet on the Black Sea? 

Which country had no sea coast previous to the world war? 

What additions have been made to this country? 

Which country should have the mildest climate? 

TOPIC 

THE BALKAN REGION, THE GATEWAY OF EUROPE:— 
A LAND WHICH. BECAUSE OF ITS POSITION AND 
THE CHARACTER OF ITS SURFACE, POSSESSES 
A GREAT DIVERSITY OF RACES, LANGUAGES AND 
RELIGIONS:— A LAND WHERE THE EARLIEST CIV- 
ILIZATION OF EUROPE GREW UP, BUT WHICH, 
NOTWITHSTANDING THE FACT THAT IT IS EAS- 
ILY ACCESSIBLE FROM THREE CONTINENTS AND 
HAS THE MOST FAVORABLE COAST LINE OF ANY 
OF THE MEDITERRANEAN PENINSULAS, IS NOW 
BACKWARD AND POORLY DEVELOPED. 

Why do we speak of the Balkan Peninsula as the Gateway of 
Europe? 

1. One of the main highways from Asia into Europe lies 
through the heart of the region. 

54 



2. A second liighway lies along the northern l:order of the 
peninsula. , 

3. The islands of the x^egean Sea form stepping stones from 
Asia Minor to the Grecian Peninsula. 

Why is it that within the Balkan Peninsula there are so many 
races and languages? 

1. Different peoples at dift'erent times have entered the pen- 
insula and have made their homes there. 

2. To escape subjugation, the earlier peoples of the region 
have sometimes moved into the inaccessible mountains. 

3. The many mountain ranges tend to keep each group or 
race of people more or less separate and distinct. 

What other effect has the ruggedness of the Balkan region 
had upon the inhabitants? 

1. Isolated people have been slow to feel the influence of 
civilization. 

2. Different peoples have fought each other upon slight 
provocation. 

What influences have determined the position of the boun- 
daries between different countries? 

1. Areas inhabited by people of the same stock or race. 

2. Crests of mountain ranges. 

3. Force used by a stronger nation against a weaker one. 
How is it that in the Balkans religious belief is often used in 

classifying people rather than language or race? 
What invading race has been chiefly to blame for the present 

backward condition of the Balkan Peninsula? 
What is there about the Grecian Peninsula which made it the 

home of the first civilized men in Europe? 

1. The earliest civilizations are thought to have originated 
in Egypt and Mesopotamia. 

2. Colonists of these people reached the peninsula earlier 
than any other lands of the Mediterranean because it was near- 
est and easiest to get at. 

3. There are many islands and deep protected bays. 

4. The peninsula is partly protected by mountains from 
northern tribes. 

What are the disadvantages of the Grecian Peninsula as a 
home for civilized people? 
55 



1. Most of the surface is mountainous and possesses a 
poor soil. 

2. The larger part of the people are compelled to live near 
the coasts. 

3. The coasts offer exceptional advantages to an enemy at- 
tacking from the sea. 

How has their environment influenced the lives of the Greeks? 

1. The rocky soil tended to discourage extensive agricul- 
ture, but was favorable to grazing. 

2. The many bays and islands encouraged a sea-faring life. 

3. The Mediterranean climate of most of Greece is favorable 
to orchards and vineyards. 

Judging from surface and climate, what ought Greece to pro- 
duce in considerable quantities, and what must be 
imported? 

1. Such fruits as the olive, fig, orange, lemon, wine grapes 
and currant (seedless raisin). 

2. Wool from the flocks of sheep and goats. 

3. Large quantities of fish should be caught. 

4. Greece must import a great quantity, of cereals. 

Why did not Greece preserve her early advantages and con- 
stitute one of the leading European nations today? 

1. The broken mountainous surface prevented the Greeks 
from developing a strong national spirit. 

2. The Romans reached Greece by sea and conquered it. 

3. The Goths reached Greece through the Vardar-Morava 
gateway in the third century of our era. 

4. The Turks invaded Greece from Asia. 

What are some of the causes which have retarded the modern 
development? 

1. Lack of forests. 

2. Lack of coal. 

3. Malarial nature of delta plains. 

4. As long as the Turk remained, no progress was possible. 
What is the importance of the situation of Salonica? 

What advantage has the situation of Athens compared with 

Corinth? 
What does the nature of the Grecian Peninsula indicate must 

always be the chief occupation of its inhabitants? 
56 



What additions to the kingdom of Greece have been made as 

a result of the world war? 
How is the position of Bulgaria less advantageous than that 

of Greece? 
Why did the treaty of Paris not give Bulgaria an outlet on the 

Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmora? 
What difficulty is encountered in establishing the boundary 

between Bulgaria, Greece and Serbia? 
Why is it the Bulgarians are farmers instead of sailors? 

1. The Bulgarians are a mixture of Slav and Mongol peo- 
ples who have had little to do with the sea. 

2. Bulgaria, though very mountainous, has a much larger 
area of agricultural land than Greece. 

What natural resources has Bulgaria that are lacking in Greece? 

1. Heavier rainfall, better soil and large areas of forest. 

2. Minerals, including coal, in the Balkan and Rhodope 
Mountains. 

3. More, water for power purposes. 

What advantage is the Danube to Bulgaria — a country with 
few railroads? 

What advantages has Bulgaria for shipping products by rail- 
road west toward the heart of Europe and east to- 
ward Asia? 

Though Bulgaria and Greece join each other, there is a great 
contrast in climate. What is the reason for this? 

What conditions make Bulgaria a great wheat and corn grow- 
ing region? 

1. Large areas of valley land. 

2. Mid-European climate with summer rains. 
For what product is Bulgaria most widely known? 

Why should we expect stock raising to be an important in- 
dustry? 

How does it happen that Bulgaria's population is a mixture of 
so many races? 

Is the situation of Sofia, the capitol city, a good one? 

What unfavorable position did Serbia occupy previous to the 
war? 

57 



How do the Serbians differ from the Bulgarians in origin and 

customs? 
Did the country of Serbia before the war include all peoples 

of the Serbian race in the Balkan Peninsula? 

1. To the southwest of Serbia lay the independent country 
of Montenegro. 

2. To the west lie the provinces of Bosnia, Hertzgovina and 
Dalmatia, formerly under the rule of Austria. 

3. To the northwest lie the provinces of Croatia and Sla- 
vonia, also a part of Austria until the close of the world war. 
What is now the extent of the country of the united Serbian 

peoples (Jugo-Slavs) ? 
What are the advantages of the new boundaries? 
In what portion is there a considerable Italian population? 
Why is it that the Mediterranean border province of Serbia 

(Dalmatia) is so narrow? 
Why is it that, aside from several coast cities, nearly all the 

people live on the Danube slope? 

1. The Dinaric Alps rise rugged and barren close to the 
Mediterranean. 

2. That part of Dinaric Alps known as the Karst is formed 
of limestone and is especially barren. 

3. The slope toward the Danube and Save Rivers is more 
gentle and has a fertile soil. 

4. Extensive forests and mineral deposits are found upon 
the Danube slope. 

5. The valleys of the Save, Danube and Morava Rivers con- 
tain large areas of agricultural land. 

What reason is there for the Serbians, like the other Balkan 

peoples, being in a backward condition? 
Why did Austria-Hungary treat her Slav subjects so poorly? 

1. Austria-Hungary wished to enlarge her boundaries toward 
the Adriatic. 

2. Serbia blocked Austria-Hungary's communication with 
the Orient. 

What can we say as to the love of the Serbians for the soil? 
Compare them with other Balkan peoples in this 
regard. 

58 



Judging from the nature of the country and the backward con- 
dition of the people, what must be the leading occu- 
pations? 

1. Farming must be the chief industry. The Mid-European 
climate favors grains, fruits, cattle, sheep and pigs. 

2. The manufacturing must be confined largely to hand m- 
dustries. 

Since rugged mountains lie between the homes of the main 
body of the inhabitants and the Mediterranean, how 
will they make use of their new coast line? 

1. A pass opens through the mountains from Fiume to 
Agram on the Save River. 

2. Pear-Tree Pass leads across the Karst region to Italy 
(an ancient highway). 

3. A railroad connects Sarajevo and Ragusa, a coast city. 

4. An ancient Roman highway leads from the Drin Gult 
across the mountains to Old Serbia. 

What are the disadvantages of Belgrad as the capitol of the 
new Serbia? 

To what extent under the new conditions will the Save-Danube 
highway benefit Serbia? 

What are the possibilities of Serbia as a future manufacturing 
country? 

Why is the Dalmatian Coast sometimes called the "Mediter- 
ranean, Norway"? 

What relation do the Montenegrins bear to the Serbians? 

Why should it be a great advantage to Montenegro to unite 
with Serbia? 

Why are the Montenegrins called the "Spartans of the Bal- 
kans"? 

Have the boundaries of Albania been changed in any great 
degree by the war? 

How do the Albanians differ from the other Balkan people in 
their origin and manner of life? 

What are some of the reasons for the Albanians being the most 
backward of all the Balkan peoples? 

1. The surface is chiefly mountains and soil poor and rocky. 

2. The rivers flow swiftly in narrow gorges. 

59 



3. The coast lands are in many places marshy and malarious. 

How is it that the Albanians, though their country has a long 

sea coast, are noted neither as sailors nor fishermen? 

1. Albania has few harbors. 

2. The Albanians are descendants of a race of herdsmen. 

3. The nature of their country encourages a partially no- 
madic life. 

How do the climatic belts of the Albanians affect the lives of 
the people? 

1. The high mountain region (Karst) is cold and barren and 
occupied in summer by herdsmen. 

2. A lower belt more favorable to farming, producing corn, 
tobacco and olives. Herding is also carried on. 

3. A farming belt of low plains and small valleys. 

4. An unhealthy coast, peopled mostly by Italians and 
Greeks. 



60 



CONSTANTINOPLE AND THE INTERNATIONALIZED 

STRAITS 

What is the object of expelling the Turkish Government from 
Europe and internationalizing the Bosphorus-Darda- 
nells Straits? 

1. That the oppressed races may be freed from Turkish rule. 

2. That Turkey can no longer block the outlet of the Black 
Sea. 

In what lies the very great importance of the city of Constan- 
tinople ? 

1. The city lies von the great highway between Asia and 
Europe. 

2. The city lies on the highway between Eastern Europe, 
the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. 

What advantages does the city possess as a possible capitol of 
the League of Nations? 

1. It lies in the geographical center of the inhabited earth. 

2. It has an agreeable and healthful climate. 

3. It possesses interesting historic associations. 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

Why is it that the first civilized people of Europe grew up in 
Greece, where water is often scarce, soil rocky and 
poor, long in advance of Central Europe, where there 
is a heavy rainfall and the natural resources are more 
varied and abundant? 

Why is the Dalmatian region (the coast of greater Serbia), 
though it is picturesque and attractive and has a fairly 
abundant rainfall, a poor farming country? 

How is it that Serbia, of all the Balkan countries, has had its 
boundaries enlarged the most as a result of the war? 

What other good port could Serbia develop if deprived of the 
use of Fiume? 

What is the reason that Turkey, known in recent years as the 
"Sick Man of Europe," was able to maintain its hold 
61 



upon much of the Balkan region and until recently 

block free access to the Black Sea by water? 
How is it that Serbia, a little country before the war, occupied 

Euch an important position that Germany and Austria 

were willing to take the chances of a great war in 

order to crush it? 
Since the Danube Valley lies in the path of migrating peoples, 

why should not the progress of the people living there 

have been aided rather than retarded? 
Why, if the Mediterranean climate of the Grecian shores is 

unfavorable to energetic action, as some would assert 

because of the present backward condition of the 

people, did the earhest European civilization grow 

up here? 
On what basis were the lands of Turkey in Europe divided up 

among the surrounding states? 
Why should one see upon the streets of Constantinople the 

greatest variety of peoples of any city in the world? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL OR WRITTEN REPORTS 

The Life of the Albanian mountaineers. 

The Karst region north of the Adriatic Sea. 

The wonderful walled city of Ragusa on the Dalmatian Coast. 

Sarajevo, the city where the event took place that started the 
world war. 

The important position of Serbia in the Balkans. 

Why the Greeks are sailors and not farmers. 

The rose gardens of Bulgaria. 

The city of Constantinople. 

The Ancient and the modern Athens. 

How the Greek orchardist makes trees grow upon the rocky 
mountain sides. 

The Montenegrins, the "Spartans of the Balkans." 

The Story of the Bulgarians. 

The Balkans under the rule of the Turks. 

The Grecian islands. 

The difficulties of travel in the mountains of the Balkan Pen- 
insula. 

62 



NORWAY AND SWEDEN 



MAP STUDIES 



What peninsula is formed entirely of the two countries we 

are studying? 
By what waters is it almost surrounded? 
What other peninsula of Europe does it most nearly resemble 

in shape and surface? 
In what two climatic zones does it lie? 
Which slope of the highland is steep? Which gentle? 
Which is easier reached by land from the heart of Europe, the 

Iberian or the Scandinavian Peninsula 
Why do we say the barrier of the land side is climatic, while 
the Iberian and Italian Peninsulas have mountain bar- 
riers? 
What does the length suggest as to climatic differences be- 
tween the north and the south? 
Compare with northwest coast of America as to climate. 
Why are lakes numerous, while none of any consequence ap- 
pear upon the other peninsulas of Europe? 
What natural feature forms most of the boundary between 

Norway and Sweden? 
Does Sweden reach the Arctic Ocean? 

What differences do the coast lines of the two countries ex- 
hibit? 
Describe from the map the fjords of Norway. 
Which country has the larger area of lowland? 
To what part of Norway is its lowland entirely confined? 
What does the map suggest as to the differences in the occu- 
pations of the people of the two countries? 
Compare the coast of Norway with that of British Columbia. 
Compare the Baltic Coast of Sweden with the region about 
Hudson Bay. Is it necessary for boats to go through 
the dangerous channels of the Kattegat in order to 
pass from the Baltic to the North Sea? 



63 



PROBLEM 

NORWAY AND SWEDEN, THE HOME OF THE AN- 
CIENT VIKINGS, LIE SIDE BY SIDE UPON THE 
SCANDINAVIAN PENINSULA, BOTH BEING IN 
ABOUT THE SAME LATITUDE AND HAVING 
ABOUT THE SAME EXTENT OF COAST LINE, YET 
THE NORWEGIANS MAKE THEIR LIVING CHIEFLY 
FROM THE SEA, WHILE THE SWEDES ARE NOT 
SAILORS BUT LIVE LARGELY UPON THE RE- 
SOURCES OF THE LAND:— HOW CAN WE AC- 
COUNT FOR SUCH A GREAT DIFFERENCE IN THE 
OCCUPATIONS OF THE PEOPLES OF THE TWO 
COUNTRIES? 

How is it that for most purposes we may consider the Scan- 
dinavian Peninsula an island? 

1. The neck of the peninsula Hes in the Arctic regions. 

2. Most of the trade and travel are directed toward south- 
erly points. 

What was the object in building a railroad around the head 
of the Gulf of Bothnia, since it is such a short dis- 
tance across the Baltic Sea? 

How can we account for the fact that there are villages scat- 
tered along the west coast as far north as North Cape, 
while the eastern part of North America in the same 
latitude is almost uninhabitable? 

1. Mild southwesterly winds blow off the ocean. 

2. Land winds prevail upon the eastern coast of North 
America. 

From our knowledge of North America, how should we expect 
the rainfall to be distributed? 

1. The slope facing the ocean should be very wet. 

2. The southern part should have a heavy rainfall. 

3. The eastern slope should have a moderate rainfall. 

Are the Norwegians and Swedes the only races inhabiting the 

peninsula? 
What led the inhabitants of the peninsula, particularly those 

64 



of the western coast, to become expert seamen early 
in their history? 

1. The barren nature of the interior highlands kept most of 
the people near the coast. 

2. The deeply indented coast, with many protecting islands, 
encouraged a sea-faring life. 

3. Perhaps it was crowding of the population in a land of 
few comforts, perhaps love of adventure and gain that led to 
Viking expeditions to the southward. 

What advantages for interior water communication has Sweden 

that are lacking in Norway? 
Although the coast line of the two countries is nearly equal 

in length, does this fact give them equal advantages? 

1. Norway: 

a. Deep water fjords extend many miles into the land. 

b. The water in the fjords does not freeze. 

c. Norway is more conveniently situated for trade with 
Western Europe and America. 

2. Sweden: 

a. The harbors of the Baltic Sea freeze in winer. 

b. The passage through the Skager Rak ctnd Kattegat is a 
dangerous and inconvenient one for large vessels. 

c. Sweden is more favorably situated for trade with Cen- 
tral and Eastern Europe. 

Why would Norway suffer much more than Sweden if impor- 
tation of food supplies were stopped? 

1. Two-thirds of the area of Norway is too cold and rocky 
for cultivation. 

2. One-fifth of the surface is forested. 

3. One-third of Sweden is possible farm land. 

4. Forests form a much larger area than in Norway. 

5. The most of the farming land lies farther south than does 
that of Norway. 

What other conditions favor farming in Sweden? 

1. The climate of Sweden is drier and warmer in summer. 

2. The climate of Norway is so wet that farm operations 
are hindered. 

65 



From what we have learned of these countries, what can we 
now say as to their industries?- 

1. Norway: 

a. The larger number of the people are sailors and fisher- 
men. 

b. Farming and lumbering employ most of the remainder. 

2. Sweden: 

a. Farming is the leading occupation. 

b. Lumbering and making of lumber products is more im- 
portant than in any other country in Europe. 

c. Mining industry employs many people. 
What might we expect these countries to export? 

1. Norway should export fish and forest products. 

2. Sweden should export dairy products, forest products 
and ores. 

Judging from the climate and surface, which country must have 
the larger population? Which must import most food 
stuffs? 

Of what would we expect the imported foods should consist? 

1. Norway imports nearly all its cereals and flour. 

2. Sweden raises nearly all it needs of rye and oats, some 
wheat and extensive root crops. 

What can we say of the importance of the sea-carrying trade 
of Norway? 

Why should we expect the Norwegians to be more bold and 
energetic than the Swedes. 

What vast resources slightly developed are possessed by both 
countries? 

What are the particular advantages of Norway for manufactur- 
ing textiles? 

Why are practically all the towns of Norway on the ocean? 

Why is Stockholm sometimes called the "Venice of the 
North"? 

What are the advantages in the situation of Christiana? 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

What are the various causes that have led to the especial im- 
portance of fishing in Norway? 

66 



How does it happen that there is not only less need for rail- 
roads in Norway than Sweden, but those that are 
needed are more difficult to build? 

Why is it more necessary for Sweden to be on good commer- 
cial terms with Germany than for Norway or Den- 
mark? 

What Swedish industry is likely to be encouraged by the loss 
of Alsace-Lorraine by the Germans? 

How c^n we account for the fact that so many Swedes and 
Norwegians have emigrated to America, although their 
countries are prosperous and have enlightened gov- 
ernments? 

What conditions in Europe should lead to a great demand for 
Swedish timber? What advantage has Sweden over 
Russia as regards markets? 

Why did Norway and Sweden remain neutral during the world 
war, although Germany sank many of their ships? 

What is there in the situation and climate which helps us to 
understand why there has been less mixing of different 
races upon the Scandinavian Peninsula than in most 
other parts of Europe? 

Does a cold climate necessarily make people energetic and 
thrifty? Compare in this regard the Russians with 
the Swedes and Norwegians. 

TOPICS FOR ORAL OR WRITTEN REPORTS 

Contrast between the streams of the Scandinavian Peninsub. 
and those of Russia. Why are there no windmills in 
the mountainous portions of Scandinavia? 

Hammerfest, the most northern city in the world. 

The scenery of the fjords. 

The difficulties of the farmer in Norway. 

The advantages of Norway for fishing. 

Why dairying is the most profitable farm industry in Sweden. 

The country and homes of the Lapplanders. 

The story of the Vikings. 

Why the ships of Norway are found all over the world. 

A comparison between the lowlands of Sweden and those of 
Holland as regards origin, fertility and products. 
67 



FRANCE 



MAP STUDIES 

What is the position o£ France in Europe? 

Upon what three different bodies of water does it face? 

In what three natural regions does France lie? 

In what part are situated the highlands? 

What river divides the highlands into two parts? 

Is the relief simple or complex? Compare with Spain or the 

Balkans. 
What two chief slopes has the land? 
What is the proportion of lowland? 

Which parts of the land boundaries are well protected? 
Which part has little protection? 
What four great river systems are there? 

What is the nature of the surface of South Central France? 
What are the highest mountains? Highest peaks? 
What natural highway leads across France from the Mediter- 
ranean to the Rhine? 
What natural highway leads from the Mediterranean to the 

Bay of Biscay? 
By what route is Paris most easily reached from Marseilles? 
What must be the character of the rivers in a land as flat as 

is most of France? 
By what canals and rivers can freight go from Paris to the 

North Sea, English Channel, Bay of Biscay and the 

Mediterranean? 
From the nature of the surface, what should we expect as to 

navigation by rivers and canals? 
Why ought the whole of the interior of France to receive 

heavy rains? Compare in this regard to the interior 

of Spain. 
How should we expect the climate to compare with that of 

England? 
Which of the rivers has built a marshy delta? 
What is the explanation of estuaries at the mouths of the 

other rivers? 

68 



PROBLEM 

J^RANCE IS ONE OF THE LEADING AGRICULTURAL 
NATIONS OF EUROPE AND IS WORLD-RENOWN- 
ED FOR TASTE AND SKILL EXHIBITED IN EVERY 
BRANCH OF ART AND INDUSTRY:— WHY WAS IT 
THAT, WITH THE MOST FAVORABLE POSITION 
OF ANY COUNTRY OF EUROPE, FRANCE WAS, 
BEFORE THE WORLD WAR, EXCELLED BY BOTH 
GREAT BRITAIN AND GERMANY IN QUANTITY 
OF MANUFACTURES AND IN FOREIGN TRADE? 

In what way is the situation of France remarkably favorable? 

1. France extends across the peninsula of Europe from the 
Mediterranean to the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. 

2. France joins three large countries and two small ones. 

3. France lies in the middle of the temperate belt. 

How can we account for the fact that France has a mild, 
moist climate, while the interior of Spain is dry and 
exhibits great extremes of temperature? 

1. France lies wholly within the belt of westerly storms. 

2. France is open to the sea on the west. 

3. The greater part of the surface is low. 

4. The highlands occupy the eastern half. 

5. The conditions in Spain are the reverse of those in 
France. 

Are the land boundaries of France as favorable as they might 
be? 

1. Mountains protect the southern and most of the eastern 
boundary. 

2. The only unprotected boundary is on the north, beyond 
which lives a troublesome neighbor. 

Why did the Germans at the beginning of the world war 
attack France through Belgium instead of taking a 
shorter and more direct route toward Paris? 

How are the shape and surface of France more favorable to 
the maintenance of one government than are those of 
either Italy or Spain? 

69 



What two important gateways face the Germans on the north? 

1. The Burgiindian gate, eighteen miles wide. 

2. The Lorraine Gate in the valley of the Moselle near 
cities of Sedan and Metz. 

What remarkable highways extend across France from the 
Mediterranean toward the north and west? 

1. The Rhone-Saone Valley and Burgundian Gate were an 
old Roman highway to the Rhine and the North Sea. 

2. The Rhone-Saone-Seine Valley was the Roman highway 
to the British Isles. 

3. The Garonne Valley forms a highway from the Gulf of 
Lyons to the Bay of Biscay. 

How is the surface of France extraordinarily favorable to do- 
mestic trade? 

1. The surface of a large part is so flat that the streams 
flow slowly. 

2. There are four great navigable rivers with connecting 
canals (one-fourth interior trade is carried on by water). 
How is it that France comes nearer to raising its own food 

supplies than any of the other industrial nations of 
Europe? 

1. Nearly three-fifths of the land is under cultivation. 

2. The temperature and moisture are favorable. 

3. One-fourth of the whole area is devoted to cereals (sec- 
ond only to Russia). 

Knowing something of the climatic conditions, where shall we 
look for the different products? 

1. Wine grapes are grown in all the warm central and 
southern valleys. 

2. The mulberry tree and silk worms in the Rhone Valley 
and Mediterranean coastal border. 

3. Wheat, apples, sheep and horses in the northwest (Nor- 
mandy and Britany). 

How is it that from the discovery of America down until 
quite recently, France has done little colonizing as 
compared with England and Spain? 
1. The French lacked the incentive to emigrate because of 

their rich and productive home land. 

70 



2. The population is not crowded as in many other Euro- 
pean countries. 

Why is it France is so successful in handling her present Afri- 
can possessions? 

1. These lands are very conveniently situated. 

2. The lands produce many things not grown in France 
and form a market for French manufactures. 

3. The native inhabitants are treated justly. 

What early advantages did France have as an industrial center? 

1. The French people are naturally of an artistic temper- 
ament. 

2. The beginning of modern textile industries was made 
in Flanders. 

What is the reason that other European nations have outstrip- 
ped France in modern manufacturing industries and 
trade? 

1. France is poorly supplied with iron ore. 

2. France possesses coal, but the mines are not near the 
iron mines. 

3. France has little water power except in the remote moun- 
tain districts. 

4. The French people, being practically self-supporting, did 
not have to engage in foreign commerce. 

What effect have the last two wars of France had upon her 
manufacturing industries? 

1. As a result of the war of 1870 the Germans took the 
larger part of the iron mines of France. 

2. As a result of the world war the provinces of Alsace and 
Lorraine, containing rich iron mines, have been restored. 
What conditions have made Paris the capitol and largest city? 

l.-The city is on the Seine River, about in the center of its 
broad, flat basin. 

2. Trade routes by land, by river and canal meet at Paris. 

3. The Seine is navigable from Paris down to the sea. 
At what points on the western coast should we look for im- 
portant cities? 

1. At the mouths of the rivers. 

2. At points suitably situated for traffic with Great Britain. 

71 



What conditions determined the position of the city of Lyon? 
Why is not the largest Mediterranean city at the mouth of 

the Rhone River? 
Why is France one of the chief attractions of visitors to 

Europe? 

1. Paris is renowned for its art treasures. 

2. There are many fine old cathedrals and castles. 

3. Mont Blanc, the highest peak of the Alps, is in France. 

4. The Rivera on the Mediterranean Sea has a pleasant win- 
ter climate. 

4. Many countries are grouped about France. 
Why is it the French are better satisfied with their homeland 
than most of the peoples living about them? 



SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

Why can we say France occupies a more favorable position 
for agriculture than either the Baltic and North Sea 
coasts, or the dry lands of the Mediterranean Pen- 
insulas? 

Why have the invaders of France come more often from the 
north than from the southeast or the southwest? 

How can we account for the fact that the people of France 
have a deeper national spirit and are more intelligently 
united than are the people of Spain? 

What is the reason that the French raise such large quantities 
of wheat, while the land devoted to intensive culture, 
such as is practiced in the north of Italy, would give 
far larger returns? 

What is the reason that the French would like to hold per- 
manently the western bank of the Rhine? 

Why is it that the largest city of France has grown up in the 
interior, while great cities are more often found upon 
a sea coast? 

What is the reason the people of France make little use of 
their great quantities of grapes except for wine? 

72 



Why is it that the French are distinguished more for their 
beautiful, artistic products than for the coarser wares 
made in Germ.any and Great Britain? 

Why is it that the Germans did not come through the Bur- 
gundy Gate to attack France instead of through Bel- 
gium? 

Why is it that so few grapes are grown in the north of France, 
although they do well in the valleys of Southern Ger- 
many? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL OR WRITTEN REPORTS 

A journey upon a canal boat from Rotterdam to Marseilles, 
by way of Paris. 

The Auverne Plateau. 

A trip^ to the summit of Mont Blanc. 

France and Switzerland compared as to manufacturing ad- 
vantages. 

The influence of the mulberry tree upon the industries of the 
Rhone Valley. 

The Rivera as a winter resort. 

The attractive sights of Paris. 

A description of some French work of art. 

A French city on market day. 

The interesting city of Strasburg. 

The Value of Alsace and Lorraine to France. 

The ancient highway from the Mediterranean to the Rhine. 

The foreign possessions of France. 



73 



BELGIUM, HOLLAND AND DENMARK 

MAP STUDIES 

What is the situation of each of the above countries? 

In what natural region do they lie? 

Which of the three countries extends into the Ardenne Plateau? 

Which two are wholly lowland? 

Which one consists in large part of a marshy delta? 

What are the relative advantages of each as regards oppor- 
tunities for water transportation? 

Which is safest from attack by land? Which less safe? Which 
least secure? 

At what disadvantage is Belgium as regards ports upon the sea? 

Parts of which two countries would be flooded by the sea if 
it were not for dikes? 

What is the nature of the coast and surface of Denmark? 

Is there any resemblance between the Coast of Holland and 
that of the South Atlantic States? 

PROBLEM 

THREE LITTLE COUNTRIES — BELGIUM, HOLLAND 
AND DENMARK — SITUATED ON THE COASTAL 
BORDER OF THE LOWLAND PLAIN:— COUNTRIES 
SIMILAR IN SURFACE, CLIMATE AND IN LACK OF 
NATURAL PROTECTION AGAINST A RUTHLESS 
NEIGHBOR:— THE TWO LAST ARE, AS WE WOULD 
EXPECT, DAIRY COUNTRIES, WHILE THE FIRST 
IS NOTED FOR ITS MANUFACTURING:— WHAT ARE 
THE REASONS FOR THE SIMILARITIES AND DIF- 
FERENCES IN THEIR INDUSTRIES? 

What are the relative advantages of these countries as regards 
position upon the sea? 

1. Denmark and its islands guard the entrance to the Bal- 
tic Sea. 

2. Holland and Belgium front upon the North Sea and 
England. 

74 



In what way are these countries very much alike? 

1. All have a moist ocean climate. 

2. All have sandy, marshy shores, marked with huge sand 
dunes. 

3. All have unprotected land boundaries. 

How have the surface, shore lines and climate influenced the 
industrial growth? 

1. Denmark has a broken coastline and poor soil; therefore— 

a. The early Danish Norsemen were great sea rovers. 

b. The glacial surface has a poor soil, rarely rises over five 
hundred feet. 

c. The damp, cool climate favors rye, barley, oats and root 
crops. 

d. Moist climate favors grazing and dairy industries. 

2. Holland has a marshy coast, good delta soil and good 
commercial advantages; hence — 

a. The Hollanders are accustomed to the water because of 
Zuyder Zee, rivers and innumerable canals. 

b. The surface is in large part the Rhine delta; highest 
elevation 1000 feet, being dunes. 

c. The moist climate and marshy surface favor dairying. 

d. Suitable soil and climate favor growing of bulbs, flow- 
ers and other nursery stock. 

3. Belgium has a poor sea front and a surface in part hilly; 
therefore: — 

a. The Belgians are not seamen. 

b. Northern part is like Holland, southern part hilly, sim- 
ilar to France. 

c. The country is noted for mining (coal, iron, lead, zinc) 
and manufacturing industries. 

How is it that all three countries, having a climate in which 
trees thrive, nevertheless import lumber? 

Why is it that only one-third o£ the area of Holland is culti- 
vated, though the surface is almost level? 

What is the effect on the industries of Holland and Denmark 
of the absence of coal and water power? 

What are the chief m.arkets for the dairy and cattle products 
of Holland and Denmark? 

75 



Why did Holland and Denmark suffer so much during the 
world war, since they export great quantities of dairy 
produce? 

1. Both countries import large quantities of grain for flour 
and for feeding their dairy cattle. 

2. All the markets were closed with the exception of Ger- 
many, which gave some coal in exchange for cattle and dairy 
products. 

3. Manufactured articles and raw products were imported 
by sea at great risk. 

To what extent do the over-sea possessions of these countries 
make up for their small size? 

1. Denmark's colonies are not important. 

2. Holland's East India colonies are very valuable. 

3. Belgium's protectorate in the Congo Basin will become 
important some day. 

How is it that Belgium, largely a lowland country, like the 
others, is far more noted for its manufactures than 
for its agriculture? 

1. Belgium possesses important mines of coal and iron. 

2. Belgium lies in the heart of industrial Europe. 

3. Belgium, though having to use the mouth of the Rhine, 
which is in Holland, possesses 1000 miles of navigable streams 
and canals. 

In what way has the position of these countries with regard 
to Germany been a constant source of danger to them? 

1. Germany longed to possess the whole North Sea front 
of Europe. 

2. Germany was particularly desirous of the mouth of the 
Rhine. 

3. Germany wished to be in a better position to attack 
England. 

What is the advantage of making the Rhine an international 

stream? 
Although Holland has no natural boundary, how is it partly 

protected against Germany? 
Why are Holland and Belgium called "Buffer States"? 
Why did Germany overrun Belgium when it could have reached 

France more directly through the Argonne region? 
1(^ 



Why is Brussels a much larger city than Antwerp, though not 

situated upon a navigable stream? 
What are the advantages in the situation of Amsterdam and 

Rotterdam? 
How came the metropolis of Denmark to grow up on an 

island? 
Why did the people of Belgium suffer much more during Ger- 
man occupation than would those of Denmark or 

Holland? 
Why do so few Belgians emigrate, though the country is one 

of the most densely populated of all Europe? 
Why do these countries send to America for most of their 

cereals when Russia is nearer? 
What fine art hand-work do we receive from these countries? 
To what peoples of Europe are the peoples of these countries 

related by both language and descent? 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

Is the fact that Belgium is a "buffer state" entirely to its 
disadvantage? 

What are the reasons for the lack of emigration from Belgium, 
although the country is one of the most thickly pop- 
ulated in Europe? Compare with France, Germany 
and Italy, there being few emigrants from France and 
many from Germany and Italy. 

Would the possession of Denmark by Germany be of as much 
advantage to the latter country as the possession of 
Holland and Belgium? 

How can the Hollanders afford to use their rich delta soil as 
pasture and hay land, since delta lands ordinarily re- 
turn much more if intensively cultivated? Discuss 
from point of view of effect of climatic conditions 
upon the growth of different agricultural products, 
and of the accessibility to markets. 

Do the colonies or possessions of Holland and Belgium have 
much use for the products of their manufactories? If 
not, in what, then, constitutes the value of the colonies? 

n 



Judging from the character of the surface of Holland and of 
its coast, what two occupations should engage the en- 
ergies of a majority of the people? Give reasons for 
the answer. 

TOPICS FOR ORAL OR WRITTEN REPORTS 

The flooding of the region occupied by the Zuider Zee. 
The methods of reclaiming the marshes and flooded areas of 

Holland. 
The growing of bulbs in Holland. 
The advantages of Holland as a dairy country. 
A trip on a canal bo3t across Holland. 
The entrance to the Baltic Sea. 
The discoveries of the Danish Vikings. 
Iceland in the summer time. 
The city of Copenhagen. 
What might happen to Holland if the coast should sink a 

few feet? 
Why is it that Belgium can support such a dense population? 
The advantages of Belgium as a manufacturing state. 
The coastal features of Denmark. 



78 



SWITZERLAND 

MAP STUDIES 

What countries extend into the Alps from different sides? 

About what proportion of the Alps lies within the boundaries 
of Switzerland? 

Does Switzerland contain the highest of the Alpine peaks? 

What four great rivers have their headwaters within the Swiss 
Alps? 

What two rivers drain the most of the country? What direc- 
tions do they flow? 

In how far are the boundaries suited for defense? 

What is the general character of the surface? 

How extensive are the glaciers? 

How important are the lakes as highways? What other part 
of Europe is well supplied with lakes? 

What appears to be the proportion of farm lands? 

What are Switzerland's easiest routes to the sea? 

What is the difficulty of reaching Italy from the interior of 
Switzerland? 

PROBLEM 

SWITZERLAND:— A SMALL, MOUNTAINOUS COUN- 
TRY OCCUPYING THE HEART OF THE ALPS, COM- 
PLETELY SURROUNDED BY POWERFUL NEIGH- 
BORS AND WITHOUT ANY GREAT NATURAL RE- 
SOURCES EXCEPT WATER POWER AND SCEN- 
ERY:— A LAND UNIQUE IN THAT IT POSSESSES 
NO LANGUAGE OF ITS OWN, BUT INSTEAD USES 
THE LANGUAGES OF THE PEOPLE OF THE SUR- 
ROUNDING COUNTRIES. 

How came the little country of Switzerland to exist in the 
midst of powerful neighbors? 

1. The Swiss occupy a rugged region difficult to conquer. 

2. Their mountain home tends to develop in the Swiss n 
bold, free spirit. 

79 



3. Jealousies among her neighbors tends to make Switzer- 
hmd secure. 

How came people speaking different languages to unite in one 
country? 

1. The inhabitants of a group of valleys united in a canton. 

2. The cantons of the Western Alps united in the Swiss 
Federation for protection against their lowland neighbors. 
What kind of homes did the prehistoric dwellers build for 

protection? 
What are the four languages which the Swiss now speak? 

1. German is spoken in the north (used by two-thirds of 
the Swiss). 

2. French is spoken in the west. 

3. Italian is spoken in the south. 

4. Romonsch, an old Latin dialect, is spoken in the east- 
ern part. 

Is this variety of languages an advantage or disadvantage? 

Why is it necessary for Switzerland to remain neutral in case 
of war between her neighbors? 

What should we expect in regard to the density and distribu- 
tion of the people? 

What is there about the position and nature of Switzerland 
which makes it so well adapted to dairying? 

1. The climate is damp and cool, producing abundant forage, 

2. The larger part of the land is not suited to cultivation. 

3. There is a good market for butter and cheese. 

Why should we expect to find the agricultural products similar 

to those of Germany? 
Since Switzerland is an agricultural country, why did it suffer 

from lack of food during the world war? Compare 

with Holland and Denmark. 
How has the natural barrier between Switzerland and Italy 

been broken down? (St. Gothard Tunnel, 91^ miles; 

Simplon Tunnel, 12i/^ miles; Maloggia and Arlburg 

Tunnel, 9 miles.) 
What can we say as to the interior lines of communication? 
How has the lack of minerals affected the development of 

Swiss industries? 

80 



1. The lack of coal and iron has made unprofitable the 
manufacture of heavy, 'bulky articles. 

2. Great skill has been developed in manufacture of those 
articles requiring importation of little raw material, such as 
wood carving, watches, jewelry and lace. 

3. The recent development of v^ater power is encouraging 
the textile industries, cotton and silk. 

What climatic and product belts do we find in Switzerland? 

1. About Lake Geneva wine grapes and mulberry trees are 
grown. 

2. In the valleys and plateaus up to 2000 feet there is gen- 
eral, farming, the natural vegetation being chestnut and beach. 

3. The lovv^er mountain slopes produce pine and fir, and con- 
tain pastures. 

4. High mountain pastures. 

5. The Arctic region with its glaciers. 

In what lies the great attractiveness of the Alpine scenery? 
What effect has the coming of hundreds of thousands of vis- 
itors yearly had upon the life of the Swiss? 

1. A great hotel industry has grown up. 

2. A network of railways has been built. 

3. An important trade has developed in articles of local 
manufacture. 

4. There has grown up a great home market for vegetables 
and dairy produce. 

5. The dangers of Alpine climbing makes necessary the em- 
ployment of many guides. 

Where should we expect to find the two largest cities? 

1. Geneva, upon the Rhone outlet. 

2. Zurich, near the Rhine outlet — an important railway 
center. 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

Why was it so necessary for Switzerland to keep on good 
terms with its neighbors during the world war? 

What is the reason that there is such a country as Switzer- 
land, since it has no national language, no common 
religion, and its m^ountain valleys open directly down 
to its powerful neighbors? 

81 



How is it that Switzerland, though having no outlet on the 
sea, no coal and only one-sixth of its land capable of 
cultivation, should nevertheless contain the most pros- 
perous population in Europe? 

From the nature of their industries, what double privations did 
the Swiss endure during the war? 

How can we explain the fact that dairying is such a successful 
industry, since a large part of the country is extremely 
rough and mountainous and covered with snow a large 
part of the year? 

What is the reason that the Alps contain the greatest glaciers 
of Europe, although they lie far to the south of the 
highland of Scandinavia, where the former ice sheet 
had its start? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL DISCUSSION OR WRITTEN 
REPORTS 

The chief foods of a Swiss family. 

Winter sports in the Alps. 

A visit to the Mer de Glace. 

The Swiss lakes and their scenery. 

Dairying upon the Alpine pastures. 

The dependence of the Swiss upon their neighbors. 

Comparison of Swiss scenery with that of the Rocky Moun- 
tains and Sierra Nevada. 

The Swiss climate for summer outings compared with that of 
the Sierra Nevada. 

A Swiss chalet. 



B2 



GERMANY AND AUSTRIA 

MAP STUDIES 

Why were Germany and Austria-Hungary formerly spoken of 

as "Middle Europe"? 
What was the general shape of Germany and Austria together 

before the war? 
What part of Germany extended far eastward along the Bal- 
tic Sea? 
How did Germany compare with France and Spain in size? 
How have the boundaries of Germany been changed as a result 

of the war? 
What new countries have been established on the boundaries 

of Germany? 
In what two natural regions does Germany lie? 
What is the nature of the North Sea and Baltic Coasts? 
What is the disadvantage of the long Baltic and short North 

Sea Coast? How has the disadvantage been overcome? 
What two important drainages does Germany lie in? 
Why does the surface favor large rivers? 
What are the four large northerly flowing rivers wholly within 

Germany? 
What is the chief German river? 
What kind of mouths have most of the rivers? What is the 

nature of the Rhine mouth? 
What does the surface suggest as to the importance of interior 

water traffic? 
Is it possible to go by water from the Danube to the Rhine? 

From the Rhine to the Rhone? 
How can Germany carry on water traffic between the Rhine 

and the North Sea without entering Holland? 
What is the character of the surface of South Germany? 
What is the size of Prussia compared with the other German 

States? What are its advantages and disadvantages as 

regards position? 
What historic forested highland lies between the Rhine and 

the head of the Danube? 
83 



What determined the position of Hamburg and Bremen? 
How can we account for Berlin, remote from the sea, being 
the largest city? 

TOPIC 

GERMANY AND AUSTRIA:— ONCE THE GREAT 
POWERS OF CENTRAL EUROPE ENJOYING A 
COMMANDING POSITION IN SCIENCE, INDUSTRY 
AND TRADE AND INCLUDING MANY SUBJECT NA- 
TIONALITIES AGAINST THEIR WILLS— COUN- 
TRIES WHOSE TERRITORIES EXTENDED FROM 
THE BLEAK NORTH AND BALTIC SEA COASTS 
SOUTHEASTWARD TO THE DANUBE VALLEY 
AND THE MILD ADRIATIC SEA AND BID FAIR TO 
CONTROL ADDITIONAL LANDS ALONG THE 
ROUTE THROUGH CONSTANTINOPLE TO SOUTH- 
ERN ASIA, BUT SHORN OF UNJUST POWER BY 
THE WORLD WAR EACH IS NOW CONFINED 
WITHIN THOSE BOUNDS INHABITED BY GER- 
MAN SPEAKING TEUTONS. 

On what basis have the boundary lines of the new German 
Republic been drawn? 

What is the reason the Treaty of Paris insists on Austria re- 
maining a separate state? 

Why is there less variety in the climate of Germany than is 
possessed by most European countries of its size? 

1. The land rises to the Alps on the south. • 

2. The whole land is open to westerly winds. 

Why should we expect greater range in climate between the 
east and west than between the north and south? 

What two natural regions of North America does the surface 
of Germany resemble? 

1. South Germany is a hilly plateau much like New England. 

2. North Germany is a coastal plateau somewhat similar 
to the South Atlantic coastal plain, but much colder. 

In what way is the German plain much more unfavorable to 
agricultural development than is ours? 

84 



Why is the soil so much poorer than that of Holland and 
Belgium? 

Why are there so many German States, each with its own 
government and capitol city, while in France there is 
one central authority and city? 

What truth is there in Germany's statement that she had un- 
protected boundaries and must keep up a great mil'tary 
establishment? 

1. Mountains protect on the south. 

2. Marshes and lakes protect a part of the eastern boundary. 

3. The Rhine, while not on the boundary, forms a barrier 
a little distance within the western border. 

On which side only had Germany a neighbor with a greater 
population than herself? 

Under what disadvantage did Russia labor in attacking Ger- 
many? 

How well is Germany protected on the side of the sea? 

1. The coastal waters are shallow. 

2. The greater part of the coast borders the Baltic. 

3. The great cities are far up the estuaries. 

What made the cultural development of Germany slower than 
that of the countries of Southern Europe? 

1. Germany was originally forested, the coastal lands were 
marshy and possessed poor soil. 

2. The people were naturally of a war-like disposition. 
How have the rivers greatly aided the industrial development 

of Germany? 
What natural disadvantages does North Germany possess as 

an agricultural region? 
To what products is the cool, damp plain of North Germany 

adapted? 

1. Extensive meadows favor pasturage and dairying. 

2. The chief crops are rye, potatoes and sugar beets. 
How is it that the poor soil is made to produce enormous 

crops? 
How is it that Germany can afford to spend so much effort 
and money improving its poor soil? 
1. The growth of manufacturing industries and increase in 
population demanded a great increase of the food supply. 

85 



2. Potash, the most necessary fertilizer, is produced in the, 
country. 

3. The labor of the peasant men, women and children is 
cheap. 

What advantages has Germany as a manufacturing country? 

1. Great quantities of iron and coal since 1870. 

2. Many railroads, navigable rivers and canals. 

3. Central position and large extent of sea coast . 
What are the particular advantages of Germany's position? 

1. Germany is nearest to Russia of any of the large manu- 
facturing countries. 

2. Germany is at the head of the easiest land route to the 
Balkans and the Orient. 

What two of the chief highways of Europe lead through Ger- 
many? 

1. The route from the Rhine down the Danube River. 

2. The Rhine-Rhone route from the North Sea to the Med- 
iterranean. 

Why should we expect Germany to excel in manufactures of 
iron, chemicals, dyes, pottery, toy industries and fancy 
articles? 

What is the condition of Austria's industrial development com- 
pared with Germany? 

Why is it an advantage to Austria to be united to Germany 
rather than to maintain a separate government? 

How is it that as a result of the war Austria has lost her Adri- 
atic seaports? 

Why is is that Austria has had also to give up territory in the 
Alps? 

How have the agricultural resources of Austria been affected 
by the independence of Czecho-Slovakia (in part Bo- 
hemia) ? 

What do we understand by the "Rhinisch Provinces"? 

What is the industrial importance of this region to Germany? 

1. Near the Rhine are found the most of the coal and iron 
of Germany. 

2. The Rhine affords the best transportation of any Ger- 
man river. 

86 



Why have the AlHes urged the independence of the Rhinisch 

provinces? 
Why is it that there are many large cities in Germany, while 

Russia with a larger population has few? 
What industries have absorbed a great deal of German energy? 
Why is it so great a number of Germans have migrated to 

other countries, while there has been little emigration 

from Belgium? 
What is likely to be the effect of the loss of Alsace-Lorraine- 

on Germany? 

1. Germany will not have iron to spare for use in war 
industries. 

2. Germany will have to depend far more upon foreign 
nations. 

What w'll be the effect on Germany of opening the Kiel Canal 

to all nations? 
What is the object of placing the Flbe, Oder, Danube, Rhine 

and Moselle Rivers under the control of the League 

of Nations? 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

Why is it that, although Germany already had a long coast 
line, it would have liked very much to acquire in ad- 
dition that of Holland and Belgium? 

Compare the climatic conditions of the plain of North Ger- 
many (Prussia) with the Mediterranean border of 
Spain. In which would you prefer to engage in farm- 
ing? How would the foods that you could raise in 
Germany differ from those of Spain? 

How is it that, although Germany has many harbors, the great 
cities have grown up at the heads of estuaries, where 
the water is so shallow that the large ocean steamers 
cannot reach them? 

Would the opening of the Rhine to the free use of peoples of 
all nations benefit or injure Germany? What country 
would it benefit the most, and why? 

If the clim.ate and life conditions of Central Europe are supe- 
rior to those of the south of Europe, why is it that 

87 



since the earliest times the Germans have tried to over- 
run the people to the southward? 

Why does the position of Austria and its lack of important 
manufacturing industries make it an advantage to be 
united with Germany? 

Why is it that in Germany, where the building and running 
of railroads is such an easy matter, so much use is 
made of the waterways? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL OR WRITTEN REPORTS 

The Kiel Canal. 

A trip up the Rhine. 

A visit to the Island of Heligoland. 

The difficulties of farming on the plain of North Germany. 

The chief foods of a German family. 

The reasons why it will be more difficult for Germany to wage 

war in the future than it has been in the past. 
The character of the Prussians. 
The new neighbors of Austria. 
A journey from Vienna to Hamburg by water. 



88 



POLAND 

MAP STUDIES 

What is the position of Poland? 

Among what three powers had the country long been divided 
at the beginning of the world war? 

What is the size of the new Poland compared with Germany? 

Does Poland possess any natural boundaries on the east and 
west? 

What natural boundary on the south? 

What direction does the surface slope? 

Does Poland have access to the Baltic Sea? 

What part of Germany is cut off by Poland being extended 
to the Sea? 

What river drains nearly all Poland? 

What are the advantages in the situation of the city of War- 
saw? 

By what water route — ^river and canal— can one go from War- 
saw direct to the Black Sea? 

What is the nature of the surface of East Prussia — the German 
province lying between the main body of Poland and 
the Baltic Sea? 

TOPIC 

POLAND:— ONCE ONE OF THE LARGEST AND FORE- 
MOST COUNTRIES OF EUROPE, THE FIRST TO 
POSSESS A DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT, ITS PEO- 
PLE NOTED FOR LITERATURE, MUSIC AND THEIR 
LOVE OF COUNTRY, WAS FINALLY DIVIDED UP 
AMONG ITS THREE POWERFUL NEIGHBORS AND 
DID NOT EXIST AS AN INDEPENDENT COUNTRY 
FOR MORE THAN ONE HUNDRED YEARS, BUT 
IS NOW INDEPENDENT, AND WITH A LARGE 
POPULATION, FAVORABLE CLIMATE, FERTILE 
SOIL, COAL AND IRON, IT WILL AGAIN TAKE ITS 
PLACE AMONG THE LEADING NATIONS OF 
EUROPE. 

89 



To what group of peoples do the Poles belong? 
What was the extent of ancient Poland? 

1. Poland once reached from the Baltic to the Black Sea. 

2. Poland ruled over the Ruthenians, Esthonians, White 
Russians and the Little Russians. 

In what way was ancient Poland more progressive than its 
neighbors? 

1. A democratic form of government was early established. 

2. The people were peace loving and fond of literature. 
In what way was Poland finally divided? 

1. Russia took six-sevenths of the country. 

2. Austria took the province of Galicia. 

3. Germany took Western Poland, including the province 
of Posen. 

In what way can we roughly describe the boundaries of the 
newly established Poland? 

1. The country lies between the Oder and Mem Rivers and 
is rectangular in shape. 

2. Carpathian Mountains lie on the south, East Prussia on 
the north; through the latter extends an arm of Poland to 
Danzig on the Baltic. 

What can we say as to the importance of the new Poland? 

(Thirty million people.) 
What geographic reason is there for the former great extent 

of the country? 
Was the dismemberment of Poland aided in any way by the 

absence of natural boundaries on the east and west? 
How can we explain the fact that in ancient times Poland was 

known as the "Garden of Europe"? 

1. Poland lies inland between the Carpathians and the sea. 

2. The land was gently rolling, partly open and possessed 
a fertile soil. 

With what country can we compare Poland as to surface, cli- 
mate and productions? (Northern partly forested prai- 
ries of the United States.) 

Have the agricultural conditions had anything to do with the 
peace-loving, non-aggressive character of the Poles? 

If Poland did not touch the Baltic, by what means could she 
still reach the sea? 

90 



In what lie the advantages of the once brilliant city of War- 
saw? (Present industrial and commercial center.) 

How is it that Poland, in spite of its being under foreign con- 
trol, became a great industrial center before the world 
war? 

1. Poland contains rich deposits of ■ coal, iron and oilier 
minerals. 

2. Poland developed important textile industries. 

3. Russian Poland was one of the greatest producers of 
sugar beets. 

4. The general intelligence of the people is higher than in 
adjoining lands. 

In what way had the Russians and Germans attempted to 
strangle Polish national life? 

For what is the region about Kracow, the ancient capital of 
Galicia, widely noted? 

Why was Galicia, that province of Poland once held by Aus- 
tria, much more difficult for Austria to control than 
were the other parts by the nations that held them? 

Why is Galicia, though densely populated, poorer than the rest 
of Poland? (Occupies cold north slope of the Car- 
pathians.) 

Why have the new boundaries of Poland been established on 
the basis of language? 

Why has Danzig been made a free city under the rule of the 
League of Nations? 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

Why was it that Poland, formerly one of the most pov/erful 
nations of Europe, was not able to maintain its inde- 
pendence, while Switzerland, a much weaker country, 
has never been seriously threatened? 

By what means were the Poles enabled to maintain their na- 
tional spirit with the Germans on one side and the 
Russians on the other trying to destroy it? 

In what consists the importance to Poland of the city of Dan- 
zig on the Baltic, since the Oder and the Vistula, both 
navigable streams, flow through Poland? 

91 



What reason exists in the nature of the surface for an alli- 
ance of Poland with Lithuania rather than with Czecho- 
slovakia, though the latter belong to the same Slavic 
race, while the Lithuanians are not Slavs? 

How did it happen that during the Middle Ages Poland was 
known as the "Granary of Europe" instead of Rus- 
sia? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL DISCUSSION OR WRITTEN 
REPORTS 

Poland— a "Buffer State." 

The characteristics of the Poles. 

Krakow, the ancient capitol of Poland. 

The salt mines of Krakow. 

How Germany came to cut off Poland from the sea. 

The Polish culture of the Middle Ages. 



92 



FINLAND, ESTHONIA, LETTONIA AND LITHUANIA 

MAP STUDIES 

What is the situation of these four countries or regions? 

Of what empire did they formerly form a part? 

Which one lies north of the Gulf of Finland? 

Which three south? 

Which touches upon Poland and East Prussia? 

Which has the advantage of greatest extent of sea coast? 

What is the nature of the surface of nearly the whole region? 

Into what mountains does Northern Finland extend? 

Does Finland touch upon the Arctic Ocean? 

What strange feature characterizes the interior of Finland? 

What part of North America does Finland remind one of? 

What advantage has the location of the city of Helsingfor 
over Petrograd? 

Why is the city of Riga better situated for commerce than 
Petrograd? 

What appears to be the relative advantages of the three re- 
gions of Esthonia, Lettonia and Lithuania? 

Which one of the four regions will one find indicated upon 
the pre-war maps as having definite boundaries? 

Why are the boundaries of the other three districts or regions 
indefinite? 

TOPIC 

FINLAND, ESTHONIA, LETTONIA AND LITHUANIA:— 
LANDS OF THE EASTERN BALTIC REGION WHICH 
BEFORE THE WORLD WAR WERE HELD BY RUS- 
SIA AND INHABITED BY INTERESTING PEOPLES 
BELONGING TO TWO DISTINCT RACES:— LANDS 
POSSESSING AN ADVANTAGEOUS SITUATION BUT 
HAVING A COLD, DAMP CLIMATE AND A SUR- 
FACE OF FORESTS, MEADOWS, LAKES AND 
MARSHES. 

On what is based the desire for independence on the part of 
the four peoples we are now studying? 

93 



1. The Finns are not Slavs in origin or language, but are 
descendants of Mongolians. 

2. The Esthonians belong to a branch of the same race as 
the Finns. 

3. The Lithuanians belong to a much older race than the 
Finns and are descended from an Aryan stock of Southwestern 
.-Vsia. 

4. The Letts are related to the Lithuanians, speaking nearly 
the same language. 

What relation do the Finns bear to the Lapps who inhabit the 
Arctic Coasts to the north of Finland? 

What was once the importance of Lithuania? 

Judging from the position of Finland, Esthonia, Lettonia and 
Lithuania, what ought their climate to be? 

1. The westerly winds and storms have free sweep across 
these Baltic countries. 

2. The winters are long and the summers short and hot. 
With a climate similar to that of Sweden, what ought the 

products of the soil to be? 

1. Barley, rye, oats, potatoes and beets should be produced 
in abundance. 

2. The moist lowlands should be very favorable to dairy- 
ing, since about one-third of the surface is covered with mead- 
ows and heaths. 

Why is Finland sometimes called "The Land of the Thou- 
sand Lakes"? 

Why are the products of the lake region of Finland so differ- 
ent from those of the marsh lands of the other three 
regions? (The granitic rocks of the lake region con- 
tain valuable iron ores.) 

Knowing something of the climate and surface of the Baltic 
provinces, what can we say of their exports and im- 
ports? 

1. The whole region has easy access to market through its 
navigable lakes, streams and gulfs. 

2. Dairy and meat products, lumber and iron ore should 
form the chief exports. 

94 



3. The climate not being suited to growing wheat, the eight 
million people must import large quantities. 
From what sources might the needed wheat be obtained? 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

How can we explain the fact that the Finns and Lithuanians, 
whose homes were once far to the southeast in a much 
milder region, migrated into the cold, wet, forested 
land where they now live? 

How is it that the port of Kola on the northern Finnish Coast 
has certain important advantages over Helsingfors, the 
main port of the country on the Gulf of Finland? 

In what respects would Finland be one of the most favored 
countries of Europe if it were not for the climate? 

Why is it that Riga, the chief port of Lettland, would not be 
as good, if not better, outlet for the grain of Russia 
than a port upon the Black Sea?. Discuss in this con- 
nection the points to which the most of the Russian 
grain goes. 

TOPICS FOR ORAL DISCUSSION OR WRITTEN 
REPORTS 

The lake region of Finland. 

The character and appearance of the Finns. 

The advantages and disadvantages of dairying in Finland. 

The story of the Finns. 

The story of the Letts and Lithuanians. 



95 



CZECHO-SLOVAKIA 

MAP STUDIES 

What was the position of Czecho-Slovakia in the former Aus- 
trian empire? 

What is its position with regard to the North, Baltic, Adriatic 
and Black Seas? 

What two important river basins drain most of the territory? 

What navigable rivers partly compensate for lack of sea coast? 

What is the nature of the surface compared with the countries 
just studied? 

Of what three divisions or provinces is Czecho-Slovakia com- 
posed? 

Which part is Bohemia? Which Slovakia? Which province 
extends to the Danube? 

How is Bohemia naturally pratected on most sides? 

What two gateways open a highway through Bohemia? 

What is the nature of the surface of Slovakia? 

On what three sides is Bohemia inclosed by Germany? 

What are the advantages of situation of the city of Prague? 

TOPIC 

BOHEMIA, MORAVIA AND SLOVAKIA:— FORMER AUS- 
TRIAN PROVINCES, CENTRALLY SITUATED AND 
RICH IN AGRICULTURAL AND MINERAL RE- 
SOURCES:— LANDS INHABITED BY THREE CLOSE- 
LY-RELATED GROUPS OF SLAVS NOW UNITED 
IN ONE INDEPENDENT NATION WHICH, WITH 
THE POSSIBLE EXCEPTION OF POLAND, IS THE 
MOST ADVANCED IN CULTURE OF ANY OF THE 
SLAVIC PEOPLES. 

What is there advantageous as well as disadvantageous in the 
situation of the new country of the Czecho-Slovaks? 

1. The country lies in the very heart of Europe and easily 
accessible. 

96 



2. The country is one of the three European lands without 
a sea coast. 

What advantage has the country over those just studied as 
regards protective boundaries? 

1. Bohemia has mountains on three sides. 

2. Slovaivia lies in the mountains. 

3. Moravia has the other provinces on two sides and moun- 
tains on the north. 

Why, in spite of protective boundaries, was this land the 
scene of so much fighting in the Middle Ages? 

1. The Danube Highway lies near the border of Moravia. 

2. The valley of the Elbe River forms an open gate leading 
from Germany into Bohemia. 

What benefit will it be to Czecho-Slovakia to have the Danube 

and the Elbe Rivers opened free to all nations? 
Why do we speak of the Czechs and Moravians as being the 

vanguard of the Slavs in Europe? 
\¥hy has it been impossible for these people to maintain an 

independent national life? 
How can we account for Bohemia being the culture center of 

Europe in the Middle Ages? 
Judging from the surface and position, what might we expect 

would be the chief industries? 

1. The larger part of Bohemia is a plateau-like basin with 
rich soil. 

2. Moravia occupies fertile valleys draining into the Dan- 
ube River. 

3. Slovakia is largely a land of mountains. 

What products should we look for in a temperate climate 
in the heart of Europe? 

1. Cereals, flax, corn, root crops and grapes in the south. 

2. The hills and mountains support cattle, sheep and goats. 

3. Lumber industries are carried on in the Bohemian forest. 
Of what benefit are the free harbor rights in the German cities 

of Hamburg and Stettin given Czecho-Slovakia by the 
Treaty of Paris? 
What does the name "Ertzgebirge" suggest as to the impor- 
tance of mining? 

97 



1. In the mountains about the borders of Bohemia there 
are valuable deposits of iron, silver and lead. 

2. Coal is found in the valleys of Bohemia and Moravia. 
What characteristics have the Czecho-Slovaks which lead us 

to believe they will regain their ancient position in 
European civilization? 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

At what disadvantage is Czecho-Slovakia as regards its con- 
tact with German territory? In what way is Bohemia, 
the eastern province of this country, better protected 
from German aggression than is Poland? 

Czecho-Slovakia lies upon two navigable rivers, one running 
to the North Sea, the other to the Black Sea. Sup- 
pose each were navigable to the same degree, which 
of them would likely carry the most of the trade of 
the country? 

Why is Czecho-Slovakia likely to develop into a richer coun- 
try than is Hungary, although its population has more 
than once been nearly exterminated in the wars of the 
Middle Ages? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL DISCUSSION OR WRITTEN 
REPORTS 

Bohemia as it was 300 to 500 years ago. 

The city of Prague. 

How the three groups of Slavs are united in Czecho-Slovakia. 

Differ from each other. 
The ways in which Czecho-Slovakia is more highly favored 

than Poland. 
The two water outlets of Czecho-Slovakia. 



98 



HUNGARY 

MAP STUDIES 

What was the extent cf Hungary when it formed a part of 
the empire of Austria-Hungary? 

To what surrounding nations, as a result of the war, was 
about half the territory of Hungary given? 

What continuous mountain range protected a large part of the 
former Hungarian territory? 

To what large plain is the greater part of the present Hun- 
gary confined? 

Do the present boundaries offer any protection? 

What rivers flow through the Plain of Hungary? 

Through what river gaps is Hungary reached from the west 
and east? 

Where is the only large city situated? 

TOPIC 

HUNGARY:— A VAST FERTILE PLAIN SURROUNDED 
ON THREE SIDES BY A PROTECTING CIRCLE OF 
MOUNTAINS AND TRAVERSED BY THE DANUBE 
RIVER— THE HIGHWAY OF THE NATIONS:— TO 
THIS PLAIN, FROM SOUTHERN RUSSIA, ONE 
THOUSAND YEARS AGO CAME THE BARBAROUS 
MAGYAR, ANCESTORS OF THE PRESENT PEACE- 
FUL FARMERS:— THESE PEOPLE ARE RELATIVES 
OF THE FINNS AND THEIR ORIGINAL HOME WAS 
WITH OTHERS OF THE TATAR RACE UPON THE 
STEPPES OR NORTHERN ASIA. 

How came the Hungarians, originally an Asiatic people, to 
settle within the circle of the Carpathian Mountains? 

1. In ancient times there were repeated migrations of Mon- 
gols or Tartars from Asia into Europe. 

2. The fertility of the Plain of Hungary led the Magyars 
to abandon a nomadic life for the life of settled farmers. 

99 



What kind of climate should we expect to find in Hungary, 
judging from its location and surroundings? 

1. The climate of the surrounding mountains should be cold. 

2. The plain should be hot in summer. 

3. The plain should have a fair amount of rain. 

To what part of our own country might Hungary be com- 
pared? 
Why are the chief industries agricultural? 

1. Nearly all the land is used for farming or grazing and 
these industries employ three-fourths of the people. 

2. There are deposits of minerals, but they are little worked. 
What ought to be the agricultural products of a land such as 

Hungary? 

1. The vast treeless plains are adapted to wheat, and corn. 

2. The hot summers and cold winters favor the growing 
of such fruits as grapes, plums, apples, pears and cherries. 

3. Because of extensive lands best suited to grazing, the 
raising of cattle, sheep, horses and pigs is next in importance 
to the cereals. 

What conditions have made Buda-Pest the great city of Hun- 
gary? 

1. The city is formed of two towns — an ancient Roman 
and a modern commercial one. 

2. The convenience of the location at the foot of the hills 
on the Danube River, where the farmers met the miners and 
lumbermen. 

3. The variety of manufacturing industries. 

What are the causes which have led to the loss of Transyl- 
vania and other parts of former Hungary? 
In what condition does the loss of territory leave Hungary? 

1. The country has left but little except its wheat lands. 

2. The prosperity of the country will depend upon its main- 
taining friendly relations with the surrounding countries. 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

The former boundaries of Hungary followed the circle of the 
Carpathian and Transylvanian Alps and the Danube 
and Save Rivers, even reaching to the Adriatic Sea. 

100 



What are the reasons for the new Hungary being so 
much smaller and mostly confined to that circular low- 
land known as the Hungarian Plain? 

Why is it necessary for the new Hungary that both the Dan- 
ube River and the Orient Railroad be made free to its 
export and import trade? Is there any reason why 
Hungary should not be free to use the railroad to 
either Trieste or Fiume on the Adriatic? 

How is it that the Hungarians, or Magayrs, as they are often 
called, came to occupy their present home and be al- 
most surrounded by Slavs? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL DISCUSSION OR WRITTEN 
REPORTS 

The migrations of the Magayrs or Hungarians. 
The life of the Hungarian farmer. 
The Plain of Hungary. 
The City of Buda-Pest. 



f 



lOl 



RUMANIA 

MAP STUDIES 

What was the extent and what were the boundaries of Ru- 
mania before the world war? 

What is now the extent of the country? 

On what sides have additions to the territory of Rumania 
been made? 

What is the nature of the present boundaries? Are they pro- 
tective or not? 

By what rivers is the country accessible? 

What mountain axis lies V-shaped in the heart of the country? 

What is the nature of the surface of the area within the V? 

In what part of the country are the lowlands? 

What is the nature of the Black Sea Coast? 

What appears to be the nature of the mouth of the Danube? 

What obstacle in the Danube long blocked navigation? 

By what routes can Rumania export to Western Europe? 

TOPIC 
THE NEW RUMANIA:— THAT INTERESTING LAND 
OF EASTERN EUROPE EXTENDING FROM THE 
HUNGARIAN PLAIN ACROSS THE CARPATHIAN 
AND TRANSYLVANIAN ALPS TO THE BLACK SEA. 
—A LAND WHOSE PEOPLE HAVE NOT HAD THEIR 
PROGRESS RETARDED BY THEIR HIGHLAND 
BARRIER, BUT ON THE CONTRARY OWE TO IT 
THEIR PRESERVATION AS A NATION BECAUSE 
OF THE PROTECTION OFFERED BY ITS ROCKY 
FASTNESSES WHEN DRIVEN FROM THEIR FER- 
TILE PLAINS BY INVADING ARMIES. 

What is the interesting history of the Rumanian people and 

their language ? 
What is there about the position and nature of the country 

which has made it subject to frequent attacks? 

1. The lowlands lie in the path of the peoples migrating 
westward from Asia. 

102 



2. The land has a mild climate and a great area of fer- 
tile soil. 

How is it the Rumanians came to occupy both sides of the 
Carpathian and Transylvanian Alps? 

1. There are passes through the mountains. 

2. The area (Transylvania) within the V-shaped mountain 
axis is a plateau easily reached through the passes of the 
Transylvanian Alps. 

In what way have these mountains helped save the Rumanian 
race from being overwhelmed? 

1. The people of the lowlands moved into the mountains 
when unable to withstand attacks. 

2. In the mountain valleys the Rumanian people remained 
unafifected by the conquerers of the lowlands. 

How came colonies of Magyars and Germans to exist in Tran- 
sylvania surrounded by a Rumanian population? 

Why should we expect Rumania to be essentially an agricul- 
tural country? 

1. The extent and wealth of the farm lands (86 per cent of 
people live on the land). 

2. Favorable climate and easy routes of transportation. 
What three industrial belts do we find in Rumania? 

1. The Rumanian Plain is one of the most productive lands 
of Europe (grain, corn). 

2. The hill belt suited to fruit growing. 

3. The mountain lands given over to grazing, lumbering 
and mining. - 

What two reasons made the Germans so anxious to control 
Rumania during the world war? (Stores of grain, pe- 
troleum wells). 

What can we say of the importance of mining? (Petroleum 
and salt are the chief products at present; industry 
little developed.) 

Why should we look for few cities in Rumania? 

Why is there a mingling of so many races in the lands along 
the Danube? 



103 



SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

What is the reason that it is so difficult to establish satisfac- 
torily the boundaries of the New Rumania? 

By what routes did the ancient Romans reach this region and 
establish such a strong colony that it has continued 
to use a somewhat modified Latin language to the 
present time? 

Which of the two countries, Rumania and Ukraine, lying side 
by side, possesses the greater variety of climates and 
resources and should make the pleasanter place in 
which to live? 

What is the reason that the Rumanians have been able to 
maintain their language and customs, although much 
of their land, as was shown in the world war, can be 
easily overrun by an enemy? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL DISCUSSION OR WRITTEN 
REPORTS 

Transylvania — one of the provinces of the New Rumania. 

The mouth of the Danube. 

The "Iron Gate" of the Danube. 

The many advantages of Rumania. 

Why Rumania has suffered greatly from wars and invasions. 

Rumania as a Roman colony. 



104 



UKRAINE AND RUTHENIA 

MAP STUDIES 

In what part of the former Russian empire does Ukraine lie? 

In what part of former Austria-Hungary is Ruthenia situated? 

What countries just studied lie upon the southwest? 

Upon what bodies of water does the Ukraine border? 

What great river flows through the heart of the country? 

What is the nature of the surface? 

Upon what mountains does Ruthenia border? 

What is the size of the two regious compared with Germany? 

What protective boundaries have Ruthenia and Ukraine? 

What can we say as to the character of the rivers in this 

flat country? 
With what northern waters is the Dnieper connected by canal? 

TOPIC 

UKRAINE, INCLUDING RUTHENIA— THE HOME OF 
THE LITTLE RUSSIANS:— A VAST, ALMOST LEVEL 
PRAIRIE OR STEPPE LYING NORTH OF THE 
BLACK SEA AND EAST OF THE CARPATHIANS:— 
A LAND WHOSE INHABITANTS THOUGH BACK- 
WARD IN MOST RESPECTS RAISE SUCH CROPS 
OF WHEAT AND BARLEY, UPON THE RICH, DARK 
SOIL, THAT IT HAS BECOME KNOWN AS THE 
GRANARY OF EUROPE. 

What do we mean by the "Black Earth Country"? 

Why was the name Ukraine given the greater part of this 

region? 
Why do we distinguish the western part as Ruthenia? 
What influences determined the extent and boundaries of the 

two lands? 
(Forest swamps on the north, dry steppes on the east, Ru- 
mania on southwest, Poland on the west.) 
What resemblance is there between the Ukraine and our own 

prairies? 

105 



Is all of Ukraine a fertile prairie or steppe? 

1. Ukraine extends into the forests and marshes on the 
north. 

2. On the east Ukraine extends into the dry steppes of the 
Caucasus. 

What does the presence of many windmills tell us about the 

country? 
What has been the advantage to the region of the sluggish 

rivers? 
Why is the region more fertile than the remainder of form- 

mer Russia? 
What national characteristics are exhibited by the people? 

(Little Russians.) 

1. They are noted as horsemen and warriors. Why? 

2. They are noted for their love of the soil. Why? 

3. They have a bright, gay disposition, love gay colors and 
lack ambition. Why? 

What conditions made possible the ancient trade route across 
this region between the Black and Baltic Seas? 

What are the possibilities of this route at present? 

What important city is located at each end of this route? 

In what part might we expect agriculture to be m.ost ad- 
vanced and the greatest variety of products grown? 

On what grounds do the Little Russians claim they are the 
true Russians? 

1. The Little Russians possess the oldest government and 
the oldest city, Kiev, in the former Russian Empire. 

2. A branch of the Little Russians migrated northward into 
the forests and founded Great Russia. 

In what way is the lack of progress of the Little Russians 
shown? 

1. They live in communal villages. 

2. Their farming methods and implements are very prim- 
itive. 

Why are the Ukranians, notwithstanding their rich lands, so 

poor and backward? 
Why does Russia object to the independence of Ukraine? 
1. Ukraine lies between Russia and the Black Sea. 

106 



2. Ukraine produces a large part of the wheat used in 
Russia. 

3. Ukraine contains nearly all the coal and iron of former 
Russia. 

Why were the Germans so desirous of controlling Ukraine 
during the war? 

What advantage has Kiev as a center of manufacturing in- 
dustries? 

1. The city is situated at junction of two navigable streams. 

2. The city is the center for the Russian sugar industry. 

3. The city is the center for sheep and cattle products, and 
industries dependent upon them. 

What is needed to improve the condition of the people of 
Ukraine? 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

If the people of Ukraine belong to the same race as the Great 

Russians, what is their object in wanting an independent gov- 
ernment? 

Why should we expect to find a greater mixture of races in 
Ukraine than in Russia proper? 

Why is it that the peasants of the Black Earth district are so 
poor, though they have a rich soil and a good market 
for their grain? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL DISCUSSION OR WRITTEN 
REPORTS 

The ancient city of Kiev. 

The story of the Cossacks. 

The character of the Little Russians. 

A peasant's home in the Black Earth region. 

The relation of the Ruthenians to the Ukranians. 



1U7 



RUSSIA 

MAP STUDIES 

What are the boundaries of the New Russia? 

What are the disadvantages of the New Russia as regards sea 

outlets? 
What is the nature of the surface of Russia? 
Into what three divisions as regards climate and vegetation 

is Russia divisible? 
What part of the Russian boundary is open to Asia? 
How much of a barrier is the Ural Mountains? 
What is the nature of the Caucasus boundary? 
What is the peculiar character of the Caspian Sea? 
What disadvantages as a commercial outlet is possessed by the 

greatest river? 
What leads us to conclude the Divide between this river and 

the Dwina is very flat? 
Where is the highest part of the interior of Russia? 
From what part of Russia do the rivers flow in all directions? 
What water route might be developed to carry freight from 

the Volga to the Black Sea? 
If connection were made between the Don and the Volga at 

their nearest approach to each other, which way would 

the water flow? 
What three great powers of Europe suffered loss of territory 

as a result of the war? 
What provinces and what proportion of her territory has Rus- 
sia lost? 

TOPIC 

THE NEW RUSSIA:— A COUNTRY WHICH, NOTWITH- 
STANDING ITS RECENT LOSS IN TERRITORY. IS 
STILL THE LARGEST AND MOST POPULOUS ONE 
IN EUROPE, BUT NO LONGER FEARED AS IT 
WAS ONCE:— A MONOTONOUS LAND OF MARSHY 
TUNDRA, SOMBER FOREST AND DRY STEPPES, 

108 



POSSESSING VALUABLE RESOURCES AS YET LIT- 
TLE DEVELOPED, AND INHABITED CHIEFLY BY 
AN AGRICULTURAL PEOPLE POOR AND BACK- 
WARD IN CULTURE. 

What geographic reason is there for the former great size of 

the Russian Empire? 
In what lay the weakness of the former Russian Empire? 

1. The extent of the empire was very great. 

2. Communication was often difficult. 

3. Different races of people were held against their will. 
What is the situation of Russia with reference to sea outlets 

which led it to attempt to expand toward the south? 
Does the New Russia include any other peoples than Slavs? 
How have the natural regions affected the distribution and 

occupations of the inhabitants? 

1. Few live in the northern belt of marshy tundras. 

2. The forest belt is occupied by farmers and lumbermen. 

3. The Black Earth belt is devoted chiefly to the raising 
of grain. 

4. The steppes are inhabited by nomads, depending upon 
their horses, cattle and sheep. 

How is it that the forest, prairie and steppe belts extend east 
and west, while in North America similar belts have 
a north and south direction? Of what use is the 
White Sea to Russia? 

1. Navigation is possible only six months of each year. 

2. The fisheries are valuable because of the large rivers 
entering the sea. 

Why does the railroad built northward from Petrograd stop 
at Archangel instead of continuing far north to Kola? 

With the independence of Ukraine, what outlet remains to 
Russia upon the Black Sea? 

How have the surface and climate of Russia led to the division 
of the Slavs into groups? 

1. The Little Russians live upon the steppes. 

2. The Great Russians live mostly in the forest area. 

3. The White Russians live in the marsh and lake-land 
sloping toward the Baltic Sea. 

109 



What do we mean by the terms "Don Cossacks" and "Ural 

Cossacks"? 
Why is Southeast Russia so much drier than the rest of the 

country? 
Why do we, upon approaching the Caspian region, find such 

an admixture of Mongols, Tartars and Turks in the 

Slav population? 

1. The ancestors of the Mongols, Tartars and Turks once 
lived upon the steppes of Northern Asia. 

2. Migrations at different times in search of better lands 
led them into Europe. 

3. The Russian steppes offered conditions similar to those 
to which they were accustomed. 

Why was the original Russian population living within the 
forest area safe from the migrating nomads? 

Has the monotony of surface had a good or bad effect upon 
the development of the Russian Slavs? 

1. The uniformity in the surroundings led to uniformity in 
habits and character. 

2. The network of navigable rivers has not favored the 
building of railroads. 

3. The great extent of thinly-populated country has been 
unfavorable to good roads. 

What effect has the forest life had upon the Great Russians? 

What can we say of the Russian peasant's love of the soil? 

Why do the Great Russians make good colonists, while the 
Ukranians do not? 

Why are the agricultural industries in the forest area more 
varied than those upon the steppes? (Compare ranch 
life upon our prairies with farm life in the Eastern 
States.) 

Russia is almost without mountains. Is it also lacking in min- 
erals which in most parts of the world are usually 
found in mountains? 

1. The Ural Mountains are rich in gold, platinum and copper. 

2. Oil fields of Baku are among the most noted in the 
world. 

3. Russia is well supplied with coal. 

110 



Why has Northern Russia suffered much more from lack of 
food during the war than has Southern Russia? 

What are the advantages and disadvantages in the situation 
of Petrograd? 

1. The city is in a marshy region and has a cold, damp 
climate. 

2. The city has water communication with the interior, but 
is not as well situated for exporting Russia's products as is 
Rega. 

Why has Moscow become so important as a railway, trade 
and textile center? 

1. The city lies near coal mines. 

2. The city has become the center for the cotton industry 
as it is connected by the Volga River and Caspian Sea with 
cotton fields of Turkeystan. 

3. There is an abundance of cheap labor. 

What led Novgorod, one of the oldest cities of Russia, to 
become long ago the great market of Northeast Eu- 
rope, and why is its business now declining? 

1. The city is situated on the main trade route between 
the Volga and the Baltic. 

2. The building of railroads has lessened the importance 
of many ancient trade routes. 

Why is the milling of wheat largely confined to Southern Rus- 
sia? 

What is needed to improve the condition of the farmers of 
Russia? 

1. Better education. 

2. Improved farm methods and implements. 

SPECIAL PROBLEMS 

Why was it that Russia, with more territory than could be well 
managed, tried for so long a time to reach and control 
Constantinople and the straits between Asia and Eu- 
rope? 

How is it that, although Russia touches upon three seas, it 
was so difficult to get supplies into the country during 
the war? 

Ill 



What is the reason that the peoples migrating into Russia 
from Asia at various times in the past always came 
by land instead of using the rivers whenever possible 
as people do today? 

How is it that, although well watered plains in the temperate 
belt are usually favorable to agriculture, to communi- 
cation and to the advancement of their inhabitants, the 
most extensive plains in Europe possess such a back- 
ward people? 

Would it be an advantage or disadvantage for Russia to at- 
tempt to hold her Asiatic provinces if she gains a wa- 
ter outlet to the Mediterranean Sea? 

TOPICS FOR ORAL DISCUSSION OR WRITTEN 
REPORTS 

The oil district of Baku. 

The salt steppes surrounding the Caspian Sea. 

Life in the Russian forest. 

Visits to the tundra in winter and in summer. 

The Nizhni-Novgorod fair. 

The founding of Petrograd. 

The Tartars of Southeast Russia. 

The Caspian Sea. 

The sights of Moscow. 

The character of the Great Russians. 

The White Russians. 

A Russian peasant's home. 



112 



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